Government Mandates 60% Free Seats on Flights for Passengers
In a significant move to enhance passenger convenience, the Ministry of Civil Aviation has directed airlines across the country to provide at least 60 percent of seats free of charge on every flight. This initiative aims to relieve air travelers and ensure fair access to seat selection.
According to the official announcement, the directive was issued to promote transparency, uniformity, and an improved passenger experience across all airlines. Previously, only a limited number of seats were available for free during the booking process or web check-in, requiring many passengers to pay additional charges for preferred seating.
Under the new rules, airlines must ensure that the majority of seats are made available at no extra cost, thereby reducing the financial burden on travelers. This initiative is regarded as a step toward making air travel more passenger-friendly and accessible.
Another important directive addresses seating arrangements for passengers traveling together. The government has instructed airlines that individuals booked under the same Passenger Name Record (PNR) should be seated together, with adjacent seating prioritized to enhance convenience for families and groups.
The government has also established additional guidelines to improve overall service quality. Airlines are now required to clearly define and communicate their policies regarding the transport of sports equipment and musical instruments, ensuring they are handled in a passenger-friendly manner while adhering to safety regulations. Moreover, clear policies for carrying pets must also be made available to passengers.
Strict compliance with passenger rights has been emphasized, particularly in cases involving flight delays, cancellations, or denied boarding. Airlines must ensure that passengers are well-informed about their rights and entitlements in such situations.
To enhance awareness, the directives mandate airlines to prominently display passenger rights on their official websites, mobile applications, booking platforms, and airport counters. Additionally, information should be provided in regional languages to ensure better accessibility for travelers across the country.
These new regulations reflect the government’s commitment to strengthening consumer rights in the aviation sector while ensuring a more transparent and comfortable travel experience. If implemented effectively, these measures could significantly improve passenger satisfaction and set a new standard for airline services in India.
