In a significant move to improve passenger convenience and transparency, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has directed airlines to offer at least 60% of seats on every flight free of charge starting April 20, 2026.
The revised directive, issued through an updated Air Transport Circular on March 20, is designed to ensure fair access to seat selection without additional costs. Currently, only around 20% of seats are available without extra charges, with passengers often paying fees ranging from ₹200 to ₹2,100 depending on seat type and location.
Key Highlights of the DGCA Directive
- A minimum of 60% of seats must be offered without additional fees
- Airlines must maintain transparent seat allocation policies
- Clear communication of free vs paid seats is mandatory on booking platforms
- Passengers under the same PNR should be seated together wherever possible
- Additional service charges (e.g., sports equipment, instruments) must be clearly displayed
The regulation is part of broader efforts by the Indian government to improve consumer rights and eliminate hidden charges in air travel.
Why the Change Matters
The move addresses growing concerns among travelers about rising ancillary charges, particularly for seat selection. Many passengers have expressed dissatisfaction with paying extra even for basic seat preferences.
By increasing the number of free seats, the DGCA aims to make air travel more inclusive and accessible, ensuring that all passengers—regardless of budget—have equitable access to seating options.
Airlines Raise Concerns
However, airlines have expressed reservations about the directive. Major carriers represented by the Federation of Indian Airlines, including IndiGo, Air India, and SpiceJet, have warned that the policy could impact their revenue streams.
Industry stakeholders argue that limiting paid seat selection may force airlines to increase base ticket prices to offset losses. They have formally requested the government to reconsider the directive.
Implementation Timeline
- Circular issued: March 20, 2026
- Rule effective from: April 20, 2026
Airlines are currently preparing their systems and booking interfaces to comply with the new regulation.
What Passengers Can Expect
From April 20 onwards, travelers can expect:
- Greater availability of free seats
- Improved transparency during booking
- Reduced pressure to pay extra for basic seating
This shift marks a notable change in India’s aviation landscape, balancing consumer rights with industry sustainability.
