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Indian Flights To Allocate 60% Seats Free Of Extra Charges; What This Means For Fliers

A new aviation rule involves making 60% of seats free of any additional charges, which is strictly applicable for airlines under delay and cancellation norms.

by Tanvi Shrivastava
Indian Flights To Allocate 60% Seats Free Of Extra Charges; What This Means For Fliers

The Ministry of Civil Aviation recently told airlines that they will now have to keep a minimum of 60% of their seats on any flight free of extra charges to ensure smooth access for flyers. Additionally, the rules permit passengers with the same PNR to sit together. Read on for more information about the new rule.

Flights To Keep 60% Of Seats Free Of Extra Charges

According to a report by the Mint, the Ministry of Civil Aviation introduced several new rules for travellers on Wednesday. One of the rules is to make 60% of seats free of any additional charges, which is strictly applicable for airlines under delay and cancellation norms. The rule will also allow passengers with the same PNR to sit next to each other.

Also Read: IndiGo Launches Daily Direct Flights Between Kolkata And Shanghai; Check Full Schedule

As per the news portal, the Ministry of Civil Aviation released a press release on Wednesday with a set of new orders for airlines for passengers’ comfort and ease in aviation, as air travel has become increasingly accessible over the past few years. India has emerged as the third-largest domestic aviation market globally, with air travel becoming increasingly accessible and inclusive under the UDAN scheme, the release said. However, further clarification on when the rules will be implemented is still awaited.

The Ministry of Civil Aviation has made various changes to certain airline rules. At present, 20% of the seats can be booked free of charge, while the rest are paid ones. Now the government wants the industry to remove seat fares for at least 60% of the flights.

What Are The New Rules Issued By The Ministry Of Civil Aviation?

  • A minimum of 60% of seats on any flight should be free of any charges for easy access.
  • Passengers travelling on the same PNR are to be seated together.
  • Airlines must allow passengers to carry sports equipment and musical instruments in a clear and passenger-friendly way.
  • Airlines must strictly follow passenger rights rules, especially during delays and cancellations.
  • Passengers’ rights should be clearly displayed on airline websites, mobile apps, and airport counters.
  • Passenger benefits and rights should be communicated in regional languages for better understanding.

Also Read: From March, IndiGo To Launch Direct Flights To 6 Cities From Navi Mumbai Airport; All About It

What are your thoughts on the new aviation rules? Let us know in the comments.

Cover Image Courtesy: Pexels/Kelly

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First Published: March 18, 2026 12:03 PM

FAQs

Who is the current civil aviation minister?

The current Minister of Civil Aviation in India is Shri Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu.

Who is the current DGCA of India?

The current Director General (DG) of India's Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) is Shri Faiz Ahmed Kidwai.

Is a seat chargeable in a flight?

Yes, if you want a preferable seat, then they are chargeable.