Air travellers in India may soon receive relief from hidden charges during ticket booking and web check-in. Therefore the government now steps forward to control extra seat selection fees across airlines.
Moreover the Ministry of Civil Aviation has introduced new rules to strengthen passenger rights. Consequently authorities aim to improve transparency and fairness within India’s expanding aviation sector.
60% Flight Seats Must Remain Free for Selection
Firstly the Ministry of Civil Aviation directed airlines to keep at least 60 percent seats free for selection. Therefore passengers will not pay additional charges while choosing those seats.
Furthermore the Directorate General of Civil Aviation issued the directive for airline operators. Consequently authorities aim to create accessible and transparent air travel for passengers.
Earlier several airlines charged extra money for preferred seats during booking or web check-in. Therefore the government introduced this direction to correct such practices.
Moreover officials highlighted the need for fair access for travellers across flights.
Passengers on Same Booking Must Sit Together
Additionally the ministry directed airlines to seat passengers travelling under one PNR together. Therefore airlines should place such travellers in adjacent seats whenever possible.
Previously families and groups often paid extra money to sit together. Consequently this direction will provide relief for travellers flying with relatives or companions.
Clear Policies for Baggage, Pets and Services
Meanwhile the government asked DGCA to release further instructions improving overall passenger experience. Therefore airlines must handle sports equipment and musical instruments through transparent and passenger-friendly processes.
However airlines must follow safety rules while handling such items.
Additionally airlines must publish clear policies for pet travel. Previously travellers often faced confusion regarding animal transport rules.
Therefore the government now demands clear guidance for passengers regarding pet carriage.
Stronger Protection for Passenger Rights
Moreover the government emphasised strict compliance with passenger rights. Consequently airlines must follow rules during delays cancellations and denied boarding situations.
Additionally airlines must display passenger rights clearly across websites mobile applications booking portals and airport counters.
Furthermore airlines must inform passengers about entitlements in regional languages. Therefore authorities aim to ensure wider accessibility for travellers.
Transparency Push in a Growing Aviation Market
Meanwhile India’s domestic aviation sector continues rapid expansion. Consequently the country now stands as the world’s third-largest aviation market.
Currently airports handle more than five lakh passengers daily across India.
Therefore the ministry emphasised that passenger facilitation remains the highest priority. Moreover officials highlighted initiatives including UDAN Yatri Cafes offering affordable food.
Additionally airports provide free Wi-Fi for travellers across terminals.
Finally this directive forms part of a broader government effort. Therefore authorities seek uniform airline practices and reduced extra charges for travellers.
