Award surcharges rise again; second increase in under a year

$238 (IAD–BLR economy taxes and fees, one-way) → $290

In early April 2026 (date approximate; documented April 11–13), Virgin Atlantic increased carrier-imposed surcharges on award tickets without notice, its second such increase in less than a year and amounting to increases of as much as 118% since June 2025 on some awards. Documented one-way economy examples rose from about $238 to $290 in taxes and fees (Washington–Bangalore and Atlanta–Johannesburg), premium economy from about $469 to $526, and departures from London now carry roughly $329 in economy and $975 in Upper Class per one-way award. The fees apply regardless of the points price found, and connecting business class itineraries can exceed $1,000 one-way in taxes and fees. Flying Club receives transfers from all major US transferable currencies.

What to do: Always price the full cash component before transferring; a low points price can hide a four-figure fee.