Winning Bizness Desk

Mumbai.The government has taken a major passenger-friendly step by allowing travellers to select seats free of cost on domestic flights. On March 18, the Ministry of Civil Aviation issued directions to airlines to keep at least 60% seats open for free selection. The move is aimed at reducing additional financial burden on passengers and improving overall travel experience across India’s rapidly expanding aviation market.

Airlines directed to allow free seat choice

Until now, airlines were charging up to Rs 3,000 during web check-in for selecting preferred seats. Passengers were often left with very limited free options, sometimes as low as 20%, forcing them to pay hefty charges. Under the new directive, airlines can no longer impose extra fees for a majority of seats, ensuring wider access to preferred seating without added cost.

Crackdown on preferred seat extra charges

The government has specifically barred airlines from charging under the label of ‘preferred seats’ for the majority of seats. As per the Directorate General of Civil Aviation guidelines, at least 60% seats in every flight must be made available free of charge. This is expected to bring transparency and curb arbitrary pricing practices that had drawn frequent complaints from flyers.

Key changes passengers will immediately notice

Passengers are likely to see tangible benefits from the new rules, including:

• No extra payment for selecting most seats during booking or check-in
• Higher availability of free seating options across aircraft
• Reduced last-minute stress during web check-in process
• More transparency in pricing and fewer hidden charges

Families and groups to get adjacent seating

The ministry has also addressed a long-standing concern of families being split across rows unless they paid extra. Airlines have now been instructed to prioritise seating passengers from the same booking together.

• Earlier issue: families often had to either pay extra or sit separately
• New rule: airlines must try to allot nearby or adjacent seats to groups travelling on one PNR

Clearer rules for pets and special items

Airlines have been asked to introduce transparent and passenger-friendly policies for carrying pets, sports equipment and musical instruments. Disputes over pet travel and additional charges have been common. Going forward, airlines must publish clear guidelines so passengers know the rules in advance and can plan accordingly.

Passenger rights to be displayed prominently

The government has tightened norms following rising complaints about hidden charges and poor communication. Airlines will now have to clearly display passenger rights related to delays, cancellations and denied boarding. Information must be made available on websites, mobile apps and airport counters, including in regional languages to ensure wider understanding.

Aviation sector growth drives policy changes

India has emerged as the world’s third largest aviation market, with over five lakh passengers flying daily. The ministry has reiterated that passenger convenience is its top priority. Efforts are also underway to improve airport facilities, including affordable food options through Udaan Yatri Cafes and expanded access to free Wi-Fi, signalling a broader push towards a more accessible and passenger-centric aviation ecosystem.

• Over 5 lakh passengers travel daily across Indian airports
• India ranks as third largest domestic aviation market globally
• Focus on affordability and passenger comfort increasing steadily
• Additional facilities like budget food and Wi-Fi being expanded