New Delhi: Air passengers in India are set to benefit from lower seat selection charges, as the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has mandated airlines to offer at least 60 per cent of seats free of cost from April 20, 2026.

The move follows directions from the civil aviation ministry after growing concerns over high airline seat selection fees charged by carriers across domestic routes.

Majority of seats to be free

Under the revised DGCA guidelines, airlines must ensure that a majority of seats on every flight are available without additional charges. At present, only around 20 per cent of seats are offered free, with passengers paying extra for preferred seating.

Seat selection fees in India currently range between Rs 200 and Rs 2,100, depending on seat type, location, and extra legroom.

Transparent booking and passenger convenience

The new rules require airlines to implement a transparent seat allocation system, clearly displaying the availability of free seats and applicable conditions on booking platforms.

Passengers travelling under the same Passenger Name Record (PNR) must also be seated together, as far as possible, with preference for adjacent seating, offering relief to families and group travellers.

Airlines raise financial concerns

While the directive is expected to enhance passenger rights in Indian aviation, airlines have expressed concerns about the potential impact on ancillary revenue generated through seat selection charges.

Also Read| Driving licence expired? New Government proposal offers relief

Disclosure of additional charges

The DGCA has also instructed airlines to clearly list charges for optional services, including carrying sports equipment or musical instruments, along with terms related to liability in case of damage.

Balancing growth and passenger rights

DGCA chief Faiz Ahmed Kidwai said the regulator is working to simplify aviation rules while safeguarding passenger interests. Speaking at the Indian Chamber of Commerce Aviation and Tourism Summit, he emphasised the need to balance airline growth with consumer protection.

Also Read| A flight every two minutes? When will Noida airport begin operations and how busy will it be?

“India’s aviation sector is among the fastest-growing globally, but airlines continue to face operational challenges,” he said.

Boost for air travel experience

The latest DGCA directive is expected to improve the overall air travel experience in India, making flight seat selection more affordable while ensuring transparency and fairness in airline pricing practices.

IANS