If you’re considering a summer escape, the urgency is greater than ever. A volatile mix of soaring jet fuel prices, geopolitical tensions in West Asia, and mandatory flight diversions is driving airfares to unprecedented levels. For Indian travellers, the ideal window for booking is quickly closing as airlines — from international giants such as Lufthansa and Qantas to domestic frontrunners like Air India and IndiGo — adapt their pricing to counter a significant increase in operational costs.
The main factor contributing to the fare increase is the remarkable surge in aviation turbine fuel (ATF). Earlier this year, jet fuel prices were around $85–$90 per barrel, but they have soared to $150–200 per barrel due to disruptions in West Asia.
Rikant Pittie, CEO and Co-Founder of EaseMyTrip, shared with CNBC-TV18 that these uncertainties are already affecting travellers’ budgets. “With airfares rising due to ongoing uncertainties and seasonal demand, early planning has become more crucial than ever,” Pittie stated.
In addition to fuel, the safety landscape has evolved. The DGCA recently issued an advisory due to regional instability, which affects how airlines operate globally. This directive, aligned with EASA guidelines, warns of “increased risks to civil aviation” and has compelled airlines to engage in a complex navigation process.
This means longer flight times and significantly higher fares for direct flights to London or New York, with some prices now reaching ₹1.5 lakh. Pittie noted that in light of these changes, “travellers are also becoming more adaptable with their dates and destinations, which aids in cost optimization.”
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As traditional transit hubs like Dubai and Doha experience congestion and rerouting, travellers are shifting focus to destinations with reliable connectivity. According to Pittie, there is a growing trend of exploring “value-driven and well-connected destinations that balance experience and affordability.”
Recommended destinations for summer 2026:
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Region
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Top Picks (EaseMyTrip Insights)
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International
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Thailand, Philippines, Cambodia, Vietnam, Sri Lanka, Bali, Singapore, Malaysia, Mauritius, Maldives
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Domestic
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North East, Kashmir, Himachal, Uttarakhand, Goa, Ladakh, Kerala, Andaman
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Pittie emphasizes that these international destinations are experiencing “strong demand, driven by relatively stable connectivity, visa facilitation, and competitive travel packages.”
The concept of a ‘last-minute deal’ is nearly nonexistent for summer 2026. Pittie remarked that “travellers who book sooner can secure better fares and a broader range of options, especially for peak summer routes.” EaseMyTrip data indicates that “around 60-70% of Indian travellers had already started planning their 2026 trips at the beginning of the year.”
His key advice is to “plan and book early while choosing flexible travel options wherever feasible to effectively manage price volatility.”
A crucial note for travellers is to monitor the latest travel advisories to stay informed about potential changes in flight routes and on-ground conditions. Although Vietnam is a popular alternative, be mindful of regional fuel supply issues, as the country anticipates possible domestic flight reductions starting this April due to export restrictions.
Also Read: How the West Asia conflict is altering your flight experience | In Pictures
