AERA proposes new penalty rules to airports for failing maintain proper standards

Do you know, you pay a certain fee to the airport for using its facilities? It is called the User Development Fee (UDF). Every airport charges this fee based on the services and amenities it provides. Now imagine, if the airport, despite collecting this fee, fails to provide the promised service, who is answerable? Who pays the price? To address this, the Airports Economic Regulatory Authority (AERA) has proposed a new rule for airports.

According to a TOI report, if airports fail to maintain proper standards like for instance if the toilet is dirty, baggage is delayed, or there is a long queue at check-in, security, or immigration, then the airport may face penalties in the form of reduced UDF charges. On the other hand, airports that perform better than the defined standards may receive bonuses.

The proposal applies to all major airports handling more than 3.5 million passengers annually. Compliance will be measured through third-party audits, ensuring that passenger experiences are fairly evaluated.

The plan sets maximum waiting times for each passenger touchpoint, including terminal entry, check-in counters, security checks, immigration counters, and baggage claim. In addition, factors like cleanliness, availability of essential facilities, and the use of technology such as Digi Yatra will also be monitored.

AERA explained that airports function as natural monopolies, passengers usually have limited or no choice in selecting which airport to use. This makes it even more important to have strict performance standards in place.

“These standards are instrumental in safeguarding passenger interests, enhancing accountability, and promoting continuous improvement across airport operations,” AERA said.

The regulator also plans to classify airports handling over 6 million passengers separately, acknowledging differences in size, infrastructure, and complexity of operations.

If implemented, this proposal could make airport operators more accountable, ensuring that the UDF passengers pay translates into better services, shorter queues, cleaner facilities, and smoother travel experiences.