Search

Subscribe Our News

Subscribe Our News

In big relief for flyers, the center says there is no selection fee on 60% of seats.

In a major relief to flyers, the government has directed airline companies to ensure that at least 60% of tickets on any flight are free. This comes after several passengers complained about hidden expenditures such as seat selection fees and accused airline operators of abusing customers.
The Union Ministry of Civil Aviation implemented a series of passenger-focused standards, including a crackdown on seat taxes. Currently, seats on an aircraft are priced based on location. Seats with additional legroom, as well as window and aisle seats, are more expensive. There are very few seats on a plane that do not incur additional charges, and they are generally in the middle row and at the back.

Customers frequently inquire on social media why they have to pay more for seat selection and criticize operators. The ministry's rap should hopefully address this issue.
The government has also directed airlines, via the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), to seat passengers on the same PNR together, preferably in adjacent seats. This has long been a source of anxiety for families and groups of travellers. Those in a group wish to travel together and ask fellow passengers to move to different seats. Some reject, causing heated arguments prior to takeoff.

The regulator has also emphasized the importance of protecting passengers' rights in the event of delays, cancellations, or denial of boarding, and has directed airlines to prominently post these rights on their websites, mobile apps, booking platforms, and airport counters.
Airlines have been ordered to implement clear and transparent procedures regarding the transportation of sporting equipment, musical instruments, and pets. This measure is intended to address frequent passenger concerns about uneven rules and excessive fees. According to the regulator, these policies must meet safety and operational criteria while also being communicated in a passenger-friendly manner. Airlines have also been required to communicate passenger rights in regional languages to increase accessibility.

India is presently the world's third-largest domestic aviation market, with Indian airports handling more than 5 lakh passengers every day. The Civil Aviation Ministry has stated that passenger facilitation remains its top focus. The ministry has also developed UDAN Cafes at airports to provide economical food, as well as Flybrary, which provides free access to books and WiFi.