In a major relief for air travellers, the Government of India and the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) have announced a new rule requiring airlines to provide at least 60% of seats on every flight without any additional charges starting April 20, 2026. The move aims to make air travel more affordable and transparent for passengers across the country.
What the New Rule Says
Under the new directive, airlines will no longer be able to charge extra for selecting a large portion of seats during booking or web check-in. Earlier, only about 20% of seats were available without extra fees, but now this limit has been increased significantly to 60%.
The government has taken this step after growing complaints from passengers about hidden charges and expensive seat selection fees, especially for window, aisle, or front-row seats.
Key Highlights
| Feature | New Rule |
|---|---|
| Free seat quota | Minimum 60% seats |
| Implementation date | April 20, 2026 |
| Earlier free seats | Around 20% |
| Extra charges | Limited to premium seats only |
Big Relief for Passengers
This decision is expected to benefit millions of domestic flyers. Passengers will now have greater flexibility to choose seats without paying extra, making the overall booking process more transparent and budget-friendly.
Additionally, airlines have been instructed to ensure that families or passengers on the same booking (PNR) are seated together whenever possible, addressing a common issue faced by travelers.
Why This Change Was Needed
Airlines often charged anywhere between ₹200 to ₹2,000 or more for preferred seats, increasing the total ticket cost significantly.
The new rule aims to stop such practices and ensure fair access to seating options for all passengers.
Airlines Raise Concerns
While passengers have welcomed the move, several airlines have expressed concerns. Industry bodies warn that this rule could impact airline revenues and may even lead to a rise in ticket prices to compensate for the loss of seat selection fees.
What It Means for You
- No need to pay extra for most seats
- Easier booking experience
- Better seating for families and groups
- More transparency in ticket pricing
Conclusion
The DGCA’s new guideline marks a major shift toward passenger-first aviation policy in India. While it brings clear benefits to travelers, its long-term impact on ticket pricing and airline operations will be closely watched in the coming months.
