Government Halts 60% Free Seat Allocation Directive for Airlines
Govt order to offer 60% flight seats without additional charges put on hold
Business Standard
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The Indian government has suspended its directive requiring airlines to allocate at least 60% of flight seats for free selection, originally set to take effect on April 20. This decision follows concerns from airline representatives regarding operational impacts and fare structures, as current regulations allow only 20% of seats to be booked without additional charges.
- 01Government directive for 60% free seat allocation is on hold.
- 02Current policy allows only 20% of seats to be booked without extra charges.
- 03Airlines raised concerns about operational and commercial implications.
- 04Charges for seat selection range from ₹200 to ₹2,100.
- 05The decision aims to address rising complaints regarding high service fees.
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The Indian government's directive mandating airlines to offer 60% of flight seats for free selection has been put on hold. Initially announced on March 18, the directive was intended to address growing passenger complaints about high service fees, particularly for seat selection. Currently, airlines are permitted to allow 20% of seats to be booked without additional charges, while the rest incur fees ranging from ₹200 to ₹2,100 based on seat location and amenities. The Civil Aviation Ministry's decision to suspend the directive came after feedback from the Federation of Indian Airlines and Akasa Air, which raised concerns about the potential impact on fare structures and operational viability under the existing deregulated tariff regime. A comprehensive review of the issue is pending.
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This decision affects travelers who might have benefited from lower costs for seat selection, as airlines will continue to charge for most seats.
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