‘Economic Loss And Harassment’: HC Demands Centre Explain Airfare Spike During IndiGo Chaos

The Delhi High Court on Wednesday raised serious concerns with the Centre and relevant authorities over the sharp surge in airfares during the recent IndiGo flight disruptions, which impacted lakhs of passengers nationwide. The Bench questioned how some airlines were able to charge fares as high as ₹40,000 for tickets that typically cost around ₹5,000.

"If there was a crisis, how could other airlines take advantage? How can fares jump to ₹35,000-₹39,000? How could other carriers start charging these amounts? How can this happen?" the Court asked.

In response, Additional Solicitor General Chetan Sharma, representing the government, stated that the "statutory mechanism is totally in place" and referred to the relevant documents during the hearing. He explained that the Centre had been planning to implement the FDTL (Fare Differential Ticketing Limit) for some time, but IndiGo had requested extensions for both the July and November phases before the single judge.

"This is the first time the Ministry has intervened. We have capped the fares; this cap itself is a stringent regulatory action," the ASG submitted.

Court Questions Centre on Passenger Compensation and Airline Conduct

The Bench further questioned the government on the measures taken during the flight disruptions, asking how it ensures that airlines "behave responsibly."

"What action has been taken to compensate passengers? How are you ensuring that airline staff behave responsibly?" the Court observed, noting that the issue goes beyond mere inconvenience and also involves economic loss and systemic failures.

The Court also sought clarification on how such a situation could arise over time and what steps had been taken to assist affected passengers.

"Why did such a situation even precipitate? What steps were taken to assist passengers?" the Bench asked, directing the Centre to explain the arrangements made to manage stranded travellers and prevent harassment at airports.