Government Tells Airlines To Keep 60% Seats Free of Selection Charges
The Centre has directed airlines to keep at least 60 percent of seats on every flight free of seat selection charges, in a move aimed at reducing extra costs for passengers. The new instructions are part of a wider set of pro-passenger measures issued by the Civil Aviation Ministry through the Directorate General of Civil Aviation.
Government Caps Seat Selection Charges On Flights
Under the new direction, airlines will have to ensure that a minimum of 60 percent of seats on any flight are available without additional seat selection fees. The move follows repeated passenger complaints over hidden charges, especially for selecting window, aisle or other preferred seats. In recent years, many travellers have raised concerns that airlines were increasingly monetising basic services during the booking process.
Airlines Told To Seat Same PNR Passengers Together
The government has also asked airlines to seat passengers travelling on the same Passenger Name Record, or PNR, together, preferably in adjacent seats. This is expected to provide relief to families and group travellers who are often split across the cabin unless they pay extra. The issue has frequently led to inconvenience and last-minute seat exchange requests after boarding.
New Passenger Rights Rules For Airlines
Along with the seat fee directive, the regulator has told airlines to clearly display passenger rights in cases of delays, cancellations and denied boarding across websites, apps, booking platforms and airport counters. Carriers have also been asked to adopt transparent policies for carrying sports equipment, musical instruments and pets. The government said these steps are meant to make air travel more passenger-friendly as India continues to grow as one of the world’s largest domestic aviation markets.
