Asiana hikes surcharges on international flights

As oil prices continue to go sky- high, Koreans who head for the skies with airlines are likely to pay more in surcharges.
Asiana Airlines, Korea’s second-largest airline operator, gained approval from the Ministry of Construction and Transportation to impose extra charges as oil prices set records. A maximum of 100,000 won ($108) will be added to Korea-Europe routes, beginning Wednesday.
Those flying to Europe, the United States and Australia will pay $104, up from $52. Customers flying to nearby countries in Southeast or Central Asia will pay $46, up from $25. Flights to Japan added a $13 surcharge, up from $11. Passengers must pay surcharges when they return as well.
Korean Air, the nation’s largest carrier, already raised surcharges and applied the new rates this month. The KAL price hike is almost the same as Asiana.
Other foreign airlines, such as United Airlines and Singapore Airlines, also raised surcharges.