Dhaka, March 10 -- Airfares across Pakistan are expected to surge in the coming weeks after a steep rise in aviation fuel prices significantly increased airline operating costs. Industry officials said passengers could soon pay between PKR 7,500 and PKR 12,500 more per ticket on both domestic and international routes.

Airline representatives indicated that carriers have little choice but to pass the additional financial burden directly to travelers. The anticipated fare adjustment is aimed at offsetting rapidly rising operational expenses, which have intensified following the government's decision to sharply increase jet fuel prices nationwide.

The price of GP-1 aviation fuel, the primary fuel used by commercial aircraft, recently jumpe...