The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has taken decisive action to address concerns over inflated airfares during the upcoming festive season.
In anticipation of a significant increase in passenger movement for Diwali, Chath, and other festivals, the DGCA has stepped in to ensure fair pricing and adequate capacity. This proactive measure is designed to prevent airlines from charging exorbitant fares when demand is at its peak. To accommodate the surge in air traffic, the DGCA has instructed airlines to operate additional flights on various routes across the country.
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The initiative follows a mandate from the Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA), which requires the DGCA to monitor airfares, especially during festive periods, and intervene when prices rise unjustifiably.
In line with this directive, the DGCA proactively engaged with airlines and urged them to increase their flight capacities. The DGCA specifically requested that airlines deploy additional flights to meet the high demand expected throughout the season. This collaborative approach aims to strike a balance between allowing airlines to operate profitably and protecting the interests of consumers from unexpected price hikes.
Airlines have responded positively to the DGCA’s request by committing to a substantial increase in their flight schedules. Several major carriers have announced the deployment of additional flights:
- IndiGo is adding approximately 730 flights across 42 sectors, significantly boosting its capacity.
- Air India & Air India Express will be deploying around 486 additional flights on 20 sectors.
- SpiceJet has committed to approximately 546 additional flights across 38 sectors.
These combined efforts will result in more than 1,700 additional flights being operated across different routes, providing much-needed relief to travelers. The increased availability of flights is expected to stabilize airfares and ensure that more people can travel to their hometowns and holiday destinations without financial strain.
The DGCA has affirmed that it will maintain rigorous oversight of airline fares and flight capacities throughout the festive period. This vigilant monitoring will ensure that the agreed-upon additional services are maintained and that no airline exploits the seasonal demand.
The DGCA’s action plan is a crucial step towards fostering a more transparent and consumer-friendly aviation market, especially during times of peak travel. The focus remains on safeguarding passenger interests and ensuring a smooth and affordable travel experience for everyone.
