Government Halts Airline Rule Requiring 60% Free Seat Selection
Synopsis
In a surprising move, the government has suspended its directive requiring airlines to offer 60% of seats free of charge starting April 20. This decision comes after industry concerns about operational impacts, pending further review.
Key Takeaways
Suspension of 60% free seat selection rule by government.
Current policy allows 20% of seats to be booked free of charge.
Airlines charge between Rs 200 and Rs 2,100 for seat selection.
Initial directive aimed to tackle passenger complaints.
India is now the third-largest domestic aviation market worldwide.
New Delhi, April 3 (NationPress) The government has decided to suspend its previous mandate requiring airlines to provide a minimum of 60% of seats on any flight at no extra cost, a rule that was scheduled to take effect on April 20. The Civil Aviation Ministry communicated this decision to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) after receiving feedback from the Federation of Indian Airlines and Akasa Air. They raised concerns regarding the operational and commercial ramifications of this rule, particularly its potential effects on fare structures and alignment with the existing deregulated tariff environment.
Given these considerations, the government has chosen to put the 60% free seat provision on hold until further notice, pending a thorough review of the matter.
Currently, travelers can book 20% of seats on a flight without incurring extra charges, while the remaining seats are subject to fees ranging between Rs 200 and Rs 2,100, depending on seat location and additional legroom.
This initial directive from the Civil Aviation Ministry, announced on March 18, aimed to address growing passenger complaints regarding high fees associated with services like seat selection.
Additionally, the ministry had introduced new guidelines via the DGCA to ensure that passengers on the same PNR are seated together, ideally in adjacent seats, along with other measures designed to enhance the passenger experience. This decision comes at a time when India has established itself as the third-largest domestic aviation market in the world, with Indian airports processing over half a million passengers each day.
The ministry reaffirms its commitment to ensuring passenger facilitation, transparency, and maintaining safety standards throughout the aviation sector.
Point of View
It's clear that the government's decision to suspend the 60% free seat selection mandate reflects a careful consideration of industry feedback. This move underscores the need for a balanced approach, prioritizing both passenger interests and the operational realities faced by airlines in a competitive market.
NationPress
7 Jul 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did the government suspend the 60% free seat selection rule?
The government suspended the rule after receiving feedback from airlines about its potential operational and commercial impacts, indicating a need for further examination.
What is the current policy for free seat selection?
Currently, passengers can select 20% of seats for free, while the remaining seats incur charges ranging from Rs 200 to Rs 2,100.
When was the original rule supposed to take effect?
The original rule was set to come into effect on April 20.
What prompted the government's initial directive on seat selection?
The initial directive was aimed at addressing rising passenger complaints regarding high charges for services, including seat selection.
How does this decision affect the aviation market in India?
India has emerged as the third-largest domestic aviation market globally, and this decision may impact fare structures and passenger experiences.
