Air travel rules are set for a shake-up as the government cracks down on hidden charges and pushes airlines to prioritise passengers. What changes for your next flight and what airlines must now do.
Air travellers in India may soon see a major relief in hidden costs, with the government stepping in to curb extra charges on seat selection and tighten passenger rights across airlines.
60% SEATS TO BE FREE FOR SELECTION
In a significant move, the Ministry of Civil Aviation has directed airline operators to ensure that at least 60 per cent of seats on any flight are allocated free of cost for selection.
The order, issued through the Directorate General of Civil Aviation, aims to make air travel more accessible and transparent.
Several airlines had been charging additional fees for preferred seat selection after ticket booking or during web check-in. The new direction seeks to address these practices and ensure “fair access” for passengers.
PASSENGERS ON SAME BOOKING TO SIT TOGETHER
The ministry has also asked airlines to ensure that passengers travelling on the same PNR are seated together, preferably in adjacent seats.
This is expected to bring relief to families and groups who often had to pay extra to secure seats next to each other.
CLEAR RULES FOR BAGGAGE, PETS AND SERVICES
The DGCA has been asked to issue further instructions to improve passenger experience across multiple areas.
Airlines will need to facilitate the carriage of sports equipment and musical instruments in a transparent and passenger-friendly manner, while adhering to safety norms.