In a significant move aimed at enhancing passenger convenience and transparency, Indian airlines will be required to offer at least 60% of seats on every flight without any additional charge starting April 20, 2026.
The decision comes amid increasing complaints from flyers about being charged extra fees for selecting standard seats during ticket booking. Under the revised guidelines, passengers will now have access to a majority of seats without incurring additional costs, making the booking process more straightforward and economical.
While the new rule mandates free allocation for a large portion of seats, airlines will still retain the flexibility to charge for premium seating options, including extra legroom seats, front-row seats, and other preferential categories. This ensures that airlines can maintain ancillary revenue streams while complying with the new passenger-friendly directive.
Aviation experts believe that the move will bring much-needed transparency in airfare structures and help eliminate hidden charges that often inflate ticket prices. It is also expected to improve customer satisfaction and build greater trust among air travellers.
The implementation of this rule marks a step forward in regulating airline practices in India, aligning them with global standards that prioritize consumer rights and fair pricing mechanisms.
With the summer travel season approaching, this change is likely to provide timely relief to passengers and encourage more people to choose air travel without worrying about additional seat selection costs.