Airline Seat Selection Fees: Great news for travelers! They can now avoid the fees associated with selecting seats on flights. Airlines typically charge an extra fee for seat selection on top of the flight ticket price. However, the government has instructed airline operators to eliminate this fee for at least 60 percent of the seats on any given flight. This decision comes after numerous passengers raised concerns about hidden charges like seat selection fees, accusing airlines of taking advantage of customers.
Fees are determined based on location
This tightening of seat charges is part of passenger-focused regulations introduced by the Ministry of Civil Aviation. Currently, the pricing of aircraft seats varies depending on their location. Window and aisle seats come with higher charges, while seats offering more legroom are also pricier. Very few seats are available without additional fees, and these are typically located in the middle or rear of the aircraft.
Customers frequently voice their frustrations on social media, questioning why they must pay extra to select a seat and criticizing airlines for this practice. The ministry’s intervention is viewed as a positive move towards resolving this issue.
People with the same PNR should be seated together
The ministry, through the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), has also mandated that airlines seat passengers traveling on the same PNR together, providing adjacent seats whenever possible. This has been a persistent issue for families and groups traveling together. Often, people request to change seats, and refusals can lead to conflicts before the flight.
The regulator has also stressed the importance of safeguarding passenger rights in cases of flight delays, cancellations, and denied boarding. Airlines are required to prominently display these rights on their websites, mobile applications, booking platforms, and at airport counters.
Have clear and transparent policies
Airlines have also been asked to adopt clear and transparent policies for the transportation of sports equipment, musical instruments, and pets. This step was taken in response to frequent passenger complaints regarding inconsistent regulations and excessive fees. These policies must be communicated to passengers in simple language while remaining consistent with safety and operational requirements.
