Airlines warn of airfare hike, blames it on Centre:Carriers cry foul over govt’s no selection fees on 60% seats

Indigo, Air India, and SpiceJet have opposed the government’s decision not to charge extra for 60% of flight seats. Airlines say that this move will force them to increase airfares to compensate for their lost revenue. The Federation of Indian Airlines (FIA), representing the three airlines, has urged the Civil Aviation Ministry to withdraw this decision. The Federation stated… This directive will significantly impact the financial situation of airlines. As a result, all passengers, including those who may not wish to pre-select seats, will have to pay higher fares. This controversy emerged when the Aviation Ministry issued new rules on Wednesday to make air travel more convenient in India. As per that order, at least 60% of seats on every airline flight will be booked without any extra charge. These directives will apply to domestic flights. READ MORE | Airlines to allow passengers select 60% of seats for free 4 Points of Federation of Indian Airlines Currently, only 20% of seats are booked without an extra charge Under existing rules, only 20% of seats can be booked by passengers without paying an extra charge, while payment is required for the remaining seats. This step was taken because airlines were charging excessive fees for many services, including seat selection. According to reports, airlines currently charge an extra ₹500 to ₹3000 for selecting preferred seats. Additionally, passengers traveling on the same PNR (booking reference) will be seated together or given adjacent seats. READ MORE | After Air India, IndiGo raises fares Understand additional charges Question 1: Will I have to pay more to choose a seat now? Answer: No, at least 60% of the flight seats will now be free, meaning you won’t have to pay extra for a seat every time. Question 2: Will families or people traveling together sit separately? Answer: No, if your booking is on the same PNR, you will be given seats together or close by. Question 3: Will it be easier to carry sports equipment or musical instruments? Answer: Yes, clear and easy rules will now be made for this, so you will know in advance what to do. Question 4: Can pets be carried along? Answer: Yes, but with rules. Airlines will have to state a clear policy for this, so there is no confusion. Question 5: What will I get if the flight is delayed or canceled? Answer: You will get rights, such as- refund, another flight or waiting room, as stipulated in the rules. Question 6: How will I know my rights? Answer: Now airlines will have to clearly display information on their website, app, and at the airport. Airlines will not be able to charge extra for ‘preferred seats’ It is often seen that after ticket booking, when passengers do web check-in, they only get 20% options for free seats. For the remaining seats, companies used to charge heavily under the name of ‘preferred seat’. According to the new DGCA order, now every flight should have 60% seats that passengers can choose without any extra charge.