India Mandates 60% Free Seat Allocation on Domestic Flights for Passenger Relief
60% Free Seat Allocation on Domestic Flights
India’s aviation ministry orders airlines to offer at least 60% of flight seats free of selection fees, ensuring fair access and family seating together on same PNR bookings.
New Delhi | : Thursday, March 19, 2026 In a passenger-friendly overhaul, the Ministry of Civil Aviation has directed all domestic airlines to allocate a minimum of 60% seats on every flight free of charge, ending the practice of premium fees for basic seat selection. Previously limited to just 20% free seats, this DGCA-mandated rule guarantees equitable access during booking and web check-in, tackling complaints about hidden costs that inflated travel expenses by 10-20%. Civil Aviation Minister K Rammohan Naidu emphasized “passenger facilitation as top priority,” alongside mandates for same-PNR travelers especially families to receive adjacent seats without extra payment.
The reforms extend to transparent policies for carrying sports gear, musical instruments, and pets, with airlines required to display passenger rights prominently across platforms. This comes as India solidifies its position as the world’s third-largest domestic aviation market, buoyed by UDAN scheme expansions that have democratized air travel. Complementary initiatives like UDAN Yatri Cafes for affordable airport meals and free Flybrary book access underscore the government’s focus on affordability amid rising demand over 150 million passengers flew domestically last year.
Airlines must comply immediately, with the 60% threshold applying uniformly to prevent surge pricing on preferred seats like windows or aisles. Industry experts predict savings of ₹200-500 per ticket for middle-class families, though carriers may adjust base fares to offset revenue losses from ancillary fees, which comprised 15% of industry income in 2025. The move aligns with global trends seen in EU regulations, positioning India as a leader in consumer-centric aviation policy. While ticket prices won’t drop outright, these changes restore fairness, making air travel more predictable and accessible for millions.
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