“The increase in ticket prices remains far too small to offset the rise in costs,” said Pascal de Izaguirre, highlighting the challenges faced by airlines amid escalating fuel prices.
In March 2026, Air France implemented a price hike of up to €50 on long-haul round-trip tickets, a move aimed at offsetting the impact of rising fuel costs, which now account for 45% of airlines’ operating expenses, up from 25% just a few years prior.
Starting in April 2026, an additional €50 surcharge will be applied to long-haul tickets in both economy and premium economy classes. This follows a total increase of approximately €100 on long-haul flights over the past two months.
Short- and medium-haul tickets are also affected, with an average increase of €10. Air France’s low-cost subsidiary, Transavia, is similarly adjusting its pricing structure.
Passengers who have already purchased their tickets will not incur additional fees due to these increases, providing some relief amidst the rising costs.
In a bid to enhance its service, Air France has enlisted Nina Métayer, the World’s Best Pastry Chef of 2023, to create new desserts for its Business Class menu. Métayer stated, “I designed these desserts to be true travel companions. I’ve created rich yet light pastries to take travellers on a sensory journey, whilst evoking the charm of faraway destinations.”
The new offerings include a raspberry and coconut dessert and a lemon verbena creation, curated under the guidance of three-Michelin-starred chef Régis Marcon.
Additionally, Air France allows Business Class passengers to pre-select their main course up to 24 hours before departure, a strategy aimed at reducing food waste while prioritizing French-origin ingredients for meat, dairy, and eggs.
As the airline navigates these turbulent times, the ongoing Middle East crisis continues to exert pressure on fuel and kerosene prices, further complicating the operational landscape for airlines.
With these developments, travelers are urged to stay informed about potential changes to their travel plans as Air France adapts to the evolving economic situation.
