Centre asks airlines to provide 60% seats without additional charges
Airlines must now ensure that a majority of seats are available free of cost, preventing passengers from being forced to pay extra for basic seating.
By Newsmeter Network
New Delhi: The Centre has directed airlines to provide at least 60% of seats on every flight without any additional charge.
The move is aimed at curbing hidden air travel costs.
The decision follows a surge in passenger complaints over hefty seat selection fees and a lack of transparency in airline pricing.
Cap on seat selection charges
The Union Ministry of Civil Aviation, through the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), has rolled out new passenger-first norms to rein in arbitrary pricing practices.
Airlines must now ensure that a majority of seats are available free of cost, preventing passengers from being forced to pay extra for basic seating.
No more split seating for families
In a major relief for families and group travellers, airlines have been instructed to seat passengers booked under the same PNR together, preferably in adjacent seats. The move addresses a long-standing issue that often led to inconvenience and pre-flight disputes.
Mandatory display of passenger rights
To improve accountability, the DGCA has directed airlines to clearly display passenger rights related to delays, cancellations, and denied boarding. This information must be prominently available on airline websites, mobile apps, booking portals, and airport counters.
Transparent rules for baggage, pets, and equipment
Airlines have also been asked to standardise and clearly communicate policies for carrying sports equipment, musical instruments, and pets. The regulator stressed that while safety and operational requirements remain paramount, policies must be consistent, transparent, and passenger-friendly.
Regional language communication introduced
In a bid to enhance accessibility, airlines must now provide key passenger rights information in regional languages. This step is expected to help a broader section of travellers better understand their entitlements and avoid confusion.
The new guidelines mark a strong push by the government to make air travel more affordable, transparent, and passenger-centric, while holding airlines accountable for fair practices.
