New Delhi, March 18 The government said on Wednesday that airlines have been asked not to charge additional fees for 60 per cent of seats on domestic flights.
In addition, airlines have been asked to ensure that passengers travelling on the same PNR (Passenger Reservation Number) are seated together on a flight as part of the Civil Aviation Ministry's efforts to improve passenger facilitation.
Announcing these steps on Wednesday, the Ministry said that the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has asked airlines to ensure that at least 60 per cent of seats on any flight are allocated free of charge to ensure fair access.
According to an airline official, currently, 20 per cent of the seats can be booked free of charge, while the rest is paid.
"Passengers travelling on the same PNR are to be seated together, preferably in adjacent seats," the Ministry said in a release.
These directions apply to domestic flights, an official said.
These steps come in the context of growing concerns that airlines are charging high fees for various services, including for choosing seats.
In a post on X on Wednesday, Civil Aviation Minister K Rammohan Naidu said that important directions have been issued to further strengthen passenger facilitation measures.
"60 per cent seats free of charge, assured seating together for families, and clear, transparent norms for carriage of sports equipment, musical instruments & pets," he said.
He added that there will be stronger enforcement and visibility of passenger rights, including during delays and cancellations.
