Govt Puts 60% Free Seat Rule In Airlines Order On Hold

The Ministry of Civil Aviation has suspended its recent directive requiring airlines to provide at least 60 per cent of seats on domestic flights free of charge from 20 April. The move follows strong objections from carriers over the operational and commercial impact of the rule.

The ministry said the decision was taken after consultations with the Federation of Indian Airlines (FIA) and Akasa Air, who argued that the order could disrupt fare structures and conflict with India's deregulated tariff regime.

"In view of the above, and pending a comprehensive examination of the issue, it has been decided that the provision relating to offering at least 60 per cent of seats free of charge shall be kept in abeyance till further orders," the ministry stated.

While the directive has been paused, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) will continue to enforce other passenger-friendly measures. These include transparency in seat allocation, ensuring families booked under the same PNR are seated together, and clear disclosure of charges for carrying musical instruments, sports gear and pets.

Current Seat Booking Rules

- At present, only about 20 per cent of seats on a flight can be booked without charge.

- Airlines levy fees ranging from ₹200 to ₹2,100 for seat selection, depending on location, legroom and proximity to the front rows.

The March 18 order had sought to expand the free allocation to 60 per cent of seats, citing growing passenger concerns over rising ancillary charges. Civil Aviation Minister K. Rammohan Naidu had described the move as a step towards strengthening passenger facilitation, promising assured seating for families and greater transparency in service charges.

For now, however, the existing system remains in place, with airlines permitted to charge for the majority of seats until further review.