The Ministry of Civil Aviation on Wednesday directed airlines to ensure that at least 60 per cent of seats on every flight are provided free of charge. The move follows widespread complaints over additional charges for seat selection, particularly for window, aisle and extra-legroom seats. Currently, only a limited number of seats — often middle seats at the back — are available without extra cost. The new directive is expected to reduce the financial burden on passengers, for whom seat selection has increasingly become an additional expense rather than an add-on.
Civil Aviation Minister K Rammohan Naidu said the Government has issued “important directions 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 posted on X.
The Government has also reiterated that passengers booked under the same PNR should be seated together, preferably in adjacent seats — a long-standing concern for families and group travellers. In April 2024, the Directorate of Civil Aviation (DGCA) had already mandated that young children must be seated with at least one parent or guardian without additional charges.
To address complaints over damaged belongings, airlines have been directed to handle sports equipment and musical instruments in a “transparent and passenger-friendly manner,” subject to safety norms.
The ministry further stressed strict compliance with passenger rights in cases of delays, cancellations and denied boarding. Airlines must prominently display these rights across websites, mobile apps, booking platforms and airport counters, and communicate them clearly, including in regional languages.
The ministry said passenger facilitation remains a top priority, alongside initiatives such as UDAN Cafes for affordable food, Flybrary for free books and free Wi-Fi at airports.
