New Delhi, Mar 18 — The government on Wednesday directed airlines to allocate 60% of seats on domestic flights free of extra charges to passengers, as part of measures to improve affordability and transparency in air travel.
Ensuring Passenger Comfort and Fair Access
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has mandated that airlines ensure passengers on the same PNR are seated together, preferably in adjacent seats. The move aims to strengthen passenger facilitation and family travel comfort.
Current and Revised Seat Allocation
Currently, only 20% of seats on domestic flights can be booked free of charge. Under the new directive, at least 60% of seats must be available without additional fees, providing passengers fair access to travel options.
Transparency and Passenger Rights
Civil Aviation Minister K Rammohan Naidu highlighted that the measures include clear norms for carriage of sports equipment, musical instruments, and pets, along with stronger enforcement of passenger rights during delays and cancellations.
Background
These steps come amid rising concerns over high service charges levied by airlines, including fees for seat selection. The government aims to ensure affordable, convenient, and transparent air travel for domestic passengers.