India’s Aviation Ministry Allocates 60% of Airline Seats Free of Cost.

With airports serving more than five lakh people every day, India has become the third-largest domestic aviation market in the world. The UDAN program, which seeks to increase regional accessibility and connection, has contributed to the expansion.

The Ministry of Civil Aviation claims that passenger facilitation is still a top focus, with programs like Flybrary services, UDAN Yatri Cafés, and free Wi-Fi installed at airports to improve the traveller experience.

Through the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), the Ministry has also released a set of guidelines to enhance openness and harmonise procedures among airlines.

These include providing at least 60% of seats at no cost, placing people on the same PNR whenever feasible, and enabling the transportation of musical instruments and sporting goods in accordance with established protocols. Additionally, airlines have been required to provide a detailed description of their pet-carrying regulations.

The directions also require that passenger rights be displayed on airline platforms and at airport counters, and that passenger rights be upheld in situations involving delays, cancellations, and denied boarding. Additionally, it has been recommended that airlines provide passenger rights in local languages.

According to the Ministry, the actions are meant to lessen complaints in the aviation industry, improve passenger experience, and increase openness.