Central Government's Directive to Airlines: No Extra Charges on 60 Percent of Seats

New Delhi: The central government has issued strict instructions to airlines, mandating that at least 60% of seats on each flight should be available for selection by passengers without any seat selection fee. This move comes in response to widespread complaints from passengers regarding the excessive charges airlines are levying for seat selection.

Currently, airlines charge high amounts for window and front row seats. In some airlines, the majority of seats have been converted into 'paid seats', which has prompted the aviation ministry to intervene. With the rising ticket prices amid the ongoing Western conflict, passengers are facing significant difficulties.

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) had earlier made it clear that passengers should not be burdened with additional financial costs while traveling. The new regulation is expected to curb the exploitation of passengers by airlines, which have been increasing their profits through excessive seat selection fees. As a result, it is expected that passengers will be able to select at least 60 perent of the seats without paying any extra charges when booking flights.