Skyward Airlines has announced plans to raise ticket prices starting April 1, 2026, introducing a fuel surcharge as global fuel costs continue to rise and place pressure on airline operations.
In a passenger advisory issued on Thursday, March 26, the airline informed customers that all tickets will attract an additional charge aimed at helping it cope with increasing expenses linked to fuel.
“Effective April 1, 2026, a fuel surcharge will be applied to all Skyward Airlines ticket prices,” the airline said in the notice addressed to customers.
The carrier pointed to ongoing instability in global fuel markets as the main reason behind the move, noting that the aviation sector is facing growing challenges due to high fuel prices.
“The aviation industry continues to navigate the impact of rising global fuel costs, driven by sustained supply pressures in international markets,” the statement said.
Fuel remains one of the biggest costs for airlines, and changes in global oil prices often affect how tickets are priced. Skyward Airlines explained that its reliance on imported fuel has made it more exposed to these changes.
“As internationally imported fuel represents a substantial portion of our operating costs for each flight, these conditions have required us to take deliberate steps to ensure we can maintain a sustainable and reliable service,” the airline explained.
The introduction of the surcharge reflects wider pressure across the aviation industry, where airlines are dealing with supply challenges and rising costs linked to global events affecting fuel production and transport.
Despite the adjustment, the airline said it is working to balance operational needs with customer expectations, adding that it does not intend to place an unfair burden on passengers.
“We are committed to offering you competitive, transparent pricing and we will continue to monitor the situation closely,” the statement said.
Skyward Airlines also indicated that the surcharge may be reviewed depending on how global conditions change in the coming months.
“Should circumstances change, we will keep you updated accordingly,” the airline noted.
Although the exact increase was not disclosed, passengers should expect ticket prices to rise from April, with the surcharge applied across both domestic and regional routes operated by the airline.
Skyward Airlines, known for its affordable travel options within East Africa, said the adjustment is necessary to keep services running smoothly in a challenging environment.
The airline concluded by thanking customers for their continued support as it adapts to the changing market.
“Thank you for your continued loyalty and understanding,” the statement said.
The move reflects a wider trend in the aviation sector, where rising fuel costs and global supply pressures are forcing airlines to review pricing as they work to remain operational.