Amid the ongoing energy crisis due to war on Iran, several desi airlines have followed their international peers in hiking fares. GOI stepped in to ensure transparency and ease for the flyers. In its latest mandate the Union Ministry of Civil Aviation has directed airline operators to keep at least 60 per cent of seats on any flight free of charge for selection.
The directive, issued through the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), comes amid growing criticism of airlines charging extra for window, aisle, and extra-legroom seats, leaving very few options for several passengers.
Beyond seat charges, the ministry has also directed that passengers travelling on the same PNR must be seated together, preferably in adjacent seats. Group and family travellers have frequently raised this as a concern, with disputes over seating becoming a common occurrence before departure.
The DGCA has also called for strict adherence to the existing passenger rights framework covering flight delays, cancellations, and denial of boarding. Airlines have been asked to prominently display these rights on their websites, mobile applications, booking platforms, and airport counters, and to communicate them in regional languages to improve accessibility.
On baggage policies, airlines have been instructed to adopt clear and transparent guidelines for carrying sports equipment, musical instruments, and pets. This is such a welcome move.
In its mandate, the ministry also instructed the airlines to issue clear communication in regional languages as well for ease of the passengers.
1. Minimum 60% of seats on any flight to be allocated free of charge to ensure fair access
2. Passengers travelling on the same PNR to be seated together, preferably in…
— MoCA_GoI (@MoCA_GoI) March 18, 2026
See Also: More Scoop Over War On Iran At Mashable India Here
