Centre Gets Powers to Intervene in Airline Ticket Prices

The government has notified new rules allowing it to intervene in airline ticket prices in extraordinary situations and in the public interest, amid concerns over high airfares in the backdrop of elevated crude oil and Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF) prices. 

Under the Bharatiya Vayuyan Niyam, 2026, notified by the Union Ministry of Civil Aviation, the Centre can issue directions to airlines on fares if it considers intervention necessary in an extraordinary situation. 

Such directions must be



proportionate to the circumstances and remain in force only for the specified period.

According to Rule 192, airlines operating scheduled air services will have to determine their fares based on factors including the cost of operations and submit the tariff details to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). 

The rule states that the government may issue written directions if it is of the opinion that an extraordinary situation has arisen and intervention is necessary in the public interest.