IndiGo Airlines has come under criticism for its pricing policies, with several passengers accusing the airline of unfair extra charges. Recently, ex-Infosys CFO Mohandas Pai has expressed his dismay at IndiGo Airlines for their extra charges policy, including charges for seat upgrades and flight alterations, and brought a renewed focus on the ongoing controversy.
Mohandas Pai Criticises IndiGo’s Extra Charges Policy
Bad consumer policy by @IndiGo6E Buy a flexi stretch ticket, pay more for flexi, reach airport early, ask for earlier flight- they demand more money despite flight having seats in stretch and fare being flexi! Should be limit to extortion of consumers! Need consumer friendly…
— Mohandas Pai (@TVMohandasPai) March 19, 2025
On Wednesday, Mohandas Pai vented on social media against IndiGo Airlines for additional charges. He complained that even after buying a Flexi Stretch ticket, which has flexibility, he was charged more when he sought an earlier flight, even when seats were not occupied.
Pai characterised the airline’s policy as exploitative and unfair, stating that consumers do not deserve such additional fees. His post soon went viral, as users began posting their own instances of surprise charges while travelling on IndiGo.
After Pai’s complaint gained widespread attention, IndiGo Airlines issued a clarification. The airline explained that flexible ticket holders can switch to an earlier flight without extra charges if they report at least three hours before departure.
However, in this case, since the request was made after the stipulated time, additional charges were applied under IndiGo’s Early Service policy. Despite this clarification, passengers continued to complain, many arguing that the regulations were inconsistent and unclear.
Also Read: IndiGo Passenger’s Seat Swings Mid-Air, Viral Video Triggers Mixed Reactions
Social Media Complaints And Public Outrage
At such times sorely miss the service that Jet would offer. Absolutely cracker of customer care service
— peekay (@pankajkanal) March 19, 2025
It isn’t fleecing. The Flexi ticket just allows you to get on an alternate flight at the prevailing fare for that flight.
Typically, there’s penalty for changes, Flexi waives it.
— An Appeal To Heaven (@AnAppealToHeav8) March 19, 2025
Absolutely mercenary attitude. Due to the failure of other airlines,Indigo has taken the place of the erstwhile Indian Airlines in terms monopoly atleast. Fares are always high irrespective of season or timings. Daylight robbery.
— rajbxyz1 b (@crusadesingh) March 19, 2025
Pai’s tweet stirred up bitter criticism on the internet, as various travellers conveyed identical annoyances. Many passengers criticised IndiGo for charging discriminatory charges and others urged the imposition of more stringent consumer protection laws to prevent it.
A user stated, “This is the reason why I have stopped flying with IndiGo. Their additional charges are outrageous!” Others griped about IndiGo’s worst customer service. One of them wrote, “Flexi ticket should mean flexibility! Why charge extra when seats are available?”
While others justified IndiGo’s policy on the grounds that it is an airline business practice, the majority of passengers criticised the company for a lack of transparency and poor customer service.
The outrage about IndiGo’s additional charges is an expression of increasing passenger distaste at surprise costs and intransigent airline attitudes. As more and more travellers complain, the demand for less complicated pricing structures and more balanced consumer policies in aviation will increase.
Whether IndiGo responds to its policies or not, the issue has at least provoked a debate on airline accountability and passenger rights.
Also Read: IndiGoStretch On Delhi-Chennai Route: Perks, Prices & More, Here’s All You Need To Know!
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Cover Image Courtesy: Wikimedia Commons & @TVMohandasPai
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First Published: March 20, 2025 11:52 AM