The government has instructed airlines not to levy additional charges on at least 60 percent of seats in domestic flights, a move aimed at reducing passenger costs and ensuring fair ticketing practices. The directive comes amid growing complaints about hidden charges and expensive seat selection fees.
According to officials, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has mandated that the majority of seats must be available without extra charges, while premium categories such as front rows and extra legroom seats may continue to attract fees. The measure is designed to balance passenger convenience with airline revenue models.
The new rules also require airlines to seat families and groups booked under the same PNR together, without forcing them to pay for adjacent seats. This is expected to benefit passengers traveling with children, elderly members, or in large groups.
In addition, carriers have been directed to clearly define policies for carrying sports equipment, musical instruments, and pets, ensuring transparency and avoiding unexpected costs. The DGCA emphasized that passenger facilitation and fairness must remain the priority in airline operations.
Industry experts believe the directive will provide significant relief to travelers, especially frequent flyers and families, while airlines may need to adjust their ancillary revenue strategies. Authorities have said strict monitoring will be carried out to ensure compliance with the new norms.
