Govt. puts 60% free airline seat directive on hold

Ministry ensured the enforcement of other passenger facilitation measures previously mentioned by the DGCA, including transparency in seat allocation, co-seating of passengers on the same PNR and others. 

The Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) has placed abeyance on its recent directive requiring airlines to offer at least 60% of their seat for free selection, till further orders. The mandate was originally issued by Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and was scheduled to get implemented on April 20, 2026.   

The decision follows a strong opposition from domestic carriers. They flagged concerns over revenue loss, pricing structures, and rising operational costs. The reversal came from carriers represented by Federation of Indian Airlines (FIA).

Industry stakeholders warned that enforcing the 60% free-seat quota could ultimately force carriers to increase base fares across the board to recover the revenue loss.

While putting the free seats of flights directive on hold, ministry ensured the enforcement of other passenger facilitation measures previously mentioned by the DGCA, including transparency in seat allocation, co-seating of passengers on the same PNR, carriage of musical instruments, sports equipment & pets and clear disclosure of applicable charges.