PHILIPSBURG – Regional airline Winair says it is currently absorbing rising jet fuel costs rather than passing them on to passengers, despite mounting pressure across the aviation sector.
According to the airline’s management, the increase in fuel prices is affecting all carriers operating in the region. However, the company has chosen, for now, to bear the additional costs internally, even though this comes at the expense of its financial performance.
The airline indicated that it is closely monitoring fare developments across all destinations it serves, as well as the competitive landscape. It stressed that it does not intend to be the first airline to raise ticket prices in response to the rising costs.
The statement comes amid growing concerns within the aviation industry about the impact of sharply increased jet fuel prices. Smaller regional carriers, in particular, are facing significant pressure as fuel remains one of their largest operating expenses.
Fuel supplier Curoil has been increasing prices in recent weeks, although exact figures vary per customer due to contractual arrangements and volume-based pricing. The company has pointed to global market trends as the main driver behind the increases.
International benchmarks from S&P Global Platts show that jet fuel prices have risen from approximately $2.30 per gallon to between $3.80 and $4.10 per gallon in a matter of weeks—an increase of roughly 60 to 80 percent.
The surge is largely attributed to geopolitical developments, including escalating tensions in the Middle East, which have disrupted global energy markets.
While airlines continue to assess their options, industry observers warn that sustained high fuel prices could eventually lead to higher ticket costs for travelers, particularly on inter-island routes where margins are already tight.