DGCA orders airlines to offer 60% seats on flights ‘free of charge’ from THIS date; Full story here
Air travel in India is set to become more passenger-friendly as DGCA mandates 60% seats to be free on every flight from April 20, aiming to reduce extra charges and improve seating convenience.
New Delhi: In a major move to enhance passenger convenience, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation has directed airlines to offer at least 60 per cent of seats on every flight without any additional charge. The new rule will come into effect from April 20 and is expected to significantly reduce the cost burden on passengers.
Currently, airlines typically provide only a limited number of seats around 20 per cent free of charge, while the rest are available at a premium depending on factors such as legroom and location within the aircraft.
Under the revised guidelines, airlines must ensure a clear and transparent seat allocation process. Passengers should be informed in advance about which seats are available for free and what conditions apply during booking.
The regulator has also instructed airlines to display all relevant information prominently on their websites and booking platforms. This step is aimed at reducing confusion and helping travellers make informed choices without hidden costs.
Seating Together Made Easier
Another key aspect of the directive is improving convenience for group travellers. Airlines have been advised to seat passengers travelling under the same Passenger Name Record (PNR) together, as far as possible.
This move is expected to benefit families and groups who often face challenges in securing adjacent seats without paying extra fees.
Airlines Express Concerns Over Revenue Impact
While the decision has been welcomed by passengers, major carriers such as IndiGo, Air India, and SpiceJet have raised concerns. Airlines argue that restricting paid seat selection options could impact their ancillary revenue streams.
Industry body Federation of Indian Airlines has also urged the government to reconsider the decision, warning that airlines may be forced to increase base ticket prices to offset potential losses.
Step Towards Passenger-Centric Aviation
The new directive comes amid growing criticism over rising add-on charges in air travel, including fees for seat selection, baggage, and onboard services.
With this move, the DGCA aims to strike a balance between airline revenue models and passenger rights, making air travel in India more transparent, affordable, and user-friendly.
