Govt puts mandatory 60% free airline seat rule on hold amid jet fuel price rise

The government has put in abeyance its earlier directive mandating airlines to offer at least 60 per cent of seats on a flight without any additional charge, pending further review, according to official communication.

The Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) had earlier, on March 18, directed the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) to ensure that airlines allocate a minimum of 60 per cent of seats for selection free of cost, aimed at ensuring fair access for passengers. The order was scheduled to come into effect from April



20.

However, amid rising aviation turbine fuel (ATF) prices and increasing operational costs for airlines, the ministry has now decided to review the matter following representations from the Federation of Indian Airlines (FIA) and Akasa Air.

“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 added.