New Delhi: The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) is set to ease rules for airlines while safeguarding passenger rights in India, its chief Faiz Ahmed Kidwai said on Thursday.

Speaking at the Indian Chamber of Commerce Aviation and Tourism Summit, Kidwai highlighted the need to balance airline growth in India with consumer protection amid growing operational pressures.

“India’s aviation market is among the fastest-growing globally, but airlines are currently navigating several hurdles,” he noted.

Airspace restrictions and rising operational costs

The DGCA chief cited longer flight routes and higher fuel costs caused by restrictions on certain airspaces as major challenges. He added that ongoing tensions in West Asia have forced airlines to scale back services to the region.

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“At the same time, the closure of Pakistan’s airspace for Indian carriers has extended flight durations, increased fuel consumption, and raised operational costs,” Kidwai explained. Carrying extra fuel reduces passenger and cargo capacity, further affecting airline revenues.

“Rising operating costs are significant challenges for the sector,” he said, noting that the industry is currently facing a difficult period but expressing optimism for improvement.

Policy support and passenger-friendly measures

Highlighting the need for a supportive aviation policy in India, Kidwai stressed that several airlines have shut down in the past, making regulatory stability critical for existing carriers.

As part of recent measures, the government has withdrawn fare caps imposed following operational disruptions faced by IndiGo in December 2025. Additionally, it has mandated that 60 per cent of seats on domestic flights be offered without extra charges, aiming to benefit passengers and strengthen passenger rights on Indian flights.

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“These steps are part of broader efforts by the DGCA and the civil aviation ministry to support both airlines and passengers during challenging times,” Kidwai added.

With India’s aviation sector expanding rapidly, the regulator is focused on creating a balanced framework that ensures airline growth in India, protects passenger rights, and addresses operational challenges caused by restricted airspaces and rising fuel costs.

IANS