Government Holds 60% Free Seat Directive for Airlines After Industry Concerns

The Centre has reportedly put on hold its earlier direction requiring airlines to provide at least 60% of seats without additional charges, as per PTI reports. The rule was to be implemented from April 20.  

The Ministry of Civil Aviation stated that the provision will remain in abeyance until further review. 

Industry Representations Prompt Review 

The decision follows feedback from the Federation of Indian Airlines and Akasa Air. Airlines highlighted operational and commercial issues linked to the proposal.  

These included possible disruptions to fare structures and concerns over alignment with India’s deregulated tariff regime. 

Existing Seat Selection Framework 

Under current practice, airlines allow about 20% of seats to be selected without charge. The remaining seats are priced separately.  

Seat selection fees generally range from ₹200 to ₹2,100, depending on factors such as seat location, row position and additional legroom. 

Revenue Impact and Cost Pressures 

Airlines had indicated that increasing free seat allocation to 60% could affect ancillary revenues. Industry inputs suggested that any shortfall may be adjusted through base fares. 

This comes amid higher operating costs, including an increase in aviation turbine fuel prices linked to geopolitical developments such as the Iran conflict. 

Background to March Directive 

The directive issued on March 18 had asked the Directorate General of Civil Aviation to ensure a minimum of 60% free seat allocation on all flights.  

This followed complaints from passengers regarding charges for services such as seat selection. 

Other Provisions Remain Unchanged 

The ministry clarified that other passenger-related measures will continue. These include transparent seat allocation, co-seating of passengers under the same booking, and disclosure of applicable charges.  

Provisions covering carriage of musical instruments, sports equipment and pets also remain in place. 

Read More: IRCTC Introduces Flexible Boarding Point Changes from April 1, 2026! 

Conclusion 

The proposed change to seat allocation has been paused pending further examination, with the current system continuing for the time being. 

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