Singapore Airlines has announced an increase in its fuel surcharges that it says is due to a recent sharp and sustained escalation in the price of jet fuel.

The increase, which also applies to its regional wing SilkAir, ranges from USD3 to USD27 depending on the distance and class of travel.

The carrier said that passengers who bought tickets issued on or after January 27, 2011 will pay more for their flight tickets as a result of the increase. Fuel surcharges for flights between Singapore and Chinese cities will be USD113 for first class and suites tickets, USD100 for business class tickets, and USD88 for economy class tickets.

However SIA states that the adjustment will offer only partial relief from the higher operating costs arising from increases in the price of jet fuel and it would continue to monitor oil price movements closely and keep surcharges under constant review.