New Delhi, June 25 -- As global crude oil prices retreat towards pre-conflict levels, the Centre has hinted at the possibility of lower airfares in the future by asking airlines to review fuel-related surcharges if the decline in aviation turbine fuel (ATF) prices is sustained.

Speaking to reporters on Thursday, Union Civil Aviation Minister K Ram Mohan Naidu said the government is closely monitoring ATF prices and is in discussions with airlines to assess whether the recent fall in fuel costs represents a lasting trend or only a temporary correction.

Airfares had risen sharply in recent months after global crude oil benchmarks surged past the $100-per-barrel mark, pushing up ATF prices and prompting airlines to impose additional fare c...