Rising fuel costs aren’t just affecting US-based carriers. Airlines all over the world are feeling the crunch, leading most major carriers to increase fuel surcharges, tack on fees, and do their best to open up new revenue streams.

In order to combat rising costs, Virgin Atlantic has decided to raise their fuel surcharge for premium economy and “upper class” passengers, meaning if you have more legroom and more luxury, you’re going to pay more for fuel:

“‘With jet fuel prices now at levels that challenge the very nature and structure of the entire airline industry, we have decided to levy fuel charges depending on where you sit in the plane,’ said Steve Ridgway, chief executive of Virgin Atlantic.” (from Luxury Travel)

Virgin Atlantic’s new fuel surcharge policy will mean premium economy and upper class passengers will see an increase on airline tickets from about $35 USD to $166 USD depending on the length of the flight.

We’ll keep you updated if other airlines begin to follow Virgin Atlantic’s lead on this.