BA has blamed rising oil prices for its decision to increase fuel surcharges.

British Airways (BA) has today announced its twelfth increase in fuel surcharges in four years, citing “rising oil prices”.

The changes, which will come into effect 2 May 2008, will see the cost of long haul flights of more than nine hours increase by up to £158 return.

Long haul flights taking less than nine hours will cost up to £126 more, whilst short haul flights will cost another £26 return.

BA said is also plans to increase its fuel surcharges by similar levels in markets outside the UK.

By Natasha Piscitelli