Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi
New Delhi, Nov 1: Aviation turbine fuel (ATF) prices were increased by Rs 1.37 per litre from Sunday, while commercial LPG rates were raised by Rs 10 per 19-kg cylinder in line with firming international benchmark prices, according to state-owned oil companies.
ATF prices have been increased to Rs 138.50 per litre from Rs 137.12 per litre, marking the fourth consecutive monthly hike in jet fuel rates.
The latest increase follows a steep hike of Rs 16 per litre on October 1. Before that, ATF prices were raised by Rs 6.28 per litre on September 1 and Rs 5 per litre on August 1.
Jet fuel accounts for nearly 40 per cent of airlines' operating expenses, and the continued price increases are expected to add to the financial burden on carriers.
Commercial LPG, primarily used by hotels and restaurants, has also become costlier, with the price of a 19-kg cylinder rising by Rs 10 to Rs 2,820.
This marks the second consecutive monthly increase in commercial LPG rates. Prices were raised by Rs 62.50 per cylinder on October 1 and by Rs 9.50 on September 1.
The latest hikes follow two consecutive monthly reductions of Rs 192 in August and Rs 183.50 in July. Those cuts came after commercial LPG prices touched a record high in June amid disruptions to global energy supplies and elevated international prices.
Between February and June, commercial LPG prices had surged by Rs 1,373 per 19-kg cylinder, from Rs 1,740.50 to Rs 3,113.50, before declining in July and August.
The monthly revisions are based on movements in international benchmark prices and the rupee-dollar exchange rate. ATF and LPG prices are revised on the first day of every month and vary across states due to local taxes, including VAT.
Meanwhile, domestic LPG prices, applicable to household consumers, remained unchanged at Rs 942 per 14.2-kg cylinder.
Domestic cooking gas rates had been increased by Rs 89 per cylinder between March and June following supply disruptions and a surge in international energy prices triggered by the West Asia crisis.
Petrol and diesel prices, which were increased by around Rs 7.50 per litre each in May, also remained unchanged.