NITN | @notintownlive | 03 Apr 2026, 12:28 am
The rule was to come into effect from April 20. Photo: Pixabay.
The Ministry of Civil Aviation has put on hold its order mandating airlines to offer at least 60% of seats free of charge.
The rule was to come into effect from April 20.
Why was the decision paused
In a notification on Thursday, the ministry said it reviewed the March order after representations from the Federation of Indian Airlines and Akasa Air.
Airlines flagged operational and commercial concerns.
They also warned of an impact on fares and the deregulated tariff system.
What the rule proposed
The rule proposed raising free seat selection from 20% to 60%. Currently, most seats beyond the free quota are paid.
Charges range from ₹200 to ₹2,100, depending on seat type and legroom.
Airlines’ concerns
Airlines said the move would cut ancillary revenue. They warned it could lead to higher base fares.
Costs are already rising due to higher aviation turbine fuel prices. This is linked to geopolitical tensions, including the situation in Iran.
Other passenger-friendly measures stay
The ministry said other passenger-friendly rules will continue. These include transparency in seat allocation and co-seating for passengers on the same PNR.
Clear disclosure of charges will remain. Rules for carrying musical instruments, sports equipment, and pets will also stay in place.
- Heading to the FIFA World Cup 2026? Why Kissimmee Makes a Smart Stay in Florida
- Phones banned! Kedarnath Temple says no to mobiles as Char Dham Yatra begins
- Narendra Modi inaugurates Delhi-Dehradun corridor: How will it reshape the region?
- Travel Insurance for Indians: Why It Matters More Than You Think
- Vaping on Holiday? You May Face Strict Penalties in This Destination
- Couldn't Board Your Train? Indian Railways' New Move Comes to Rescue
- Vande Bharat food horror: Insect found in meal, passenger's X post goes viral
- Scan, Pay, Go! A Foreigner’s Take on India’s Digital Payments Boom
- Centre puts on hold 60% free airline seat rule after industry pushback
- Major Change in US Visa Rules: Social Media Accounts Now Under Scanner
The ongoing conflict in Iran is exerting significant pressure on the global aviation sector, with rising jet fuel prices and supply concerns creating challenges for both airlines and passengers.
Etihad Airways has announced a special promotional offer on its Pets Onboard service, making it more accessible for travellers flying with their cats and dogs.
Travelling with Air New Zealand is set to become significantly more comfortable, with the airline introducing its innovative Skycouch — a feature that allows footrests to fold up and convert three Economy seats into a flat surface, giving passengers space to stretch out and relax.