The Office for National Statistics (ONS) said Consumer Prices Index (CPI) inflation increased to 3.1% in August, compared with 2.9% in July.
It was in line with predictions from economists and points to an upward trajectory for inflation since striking a 15-month-low of 2.6% in June.
Motor fuels contributed significantly to the rise in inflation, after the average price of petrol rose by 9.1 pence per liter between July and August.
ONS chief economist Grant Fitzner said, "Sharp price rises for petrol and diesel pushed inflation up again in August.”
"Higher airfares, particularly for long-haul journeys, also contributed to the increase."