In a bid to address the soaring costs of air travel, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has introduced a groundbreaking measure aimed at reducing flight ticket prices.
The move is set to provide much-needed relief to travelers burdened by exorbitant fares.
Separating Services to Cut Costs
Under the new directive, DGCA emphasizes the separation of ancillary services from the base fare, thereby enabling passengers to choose and pay only for the amenities they require during their journey.
This shift from an ‘opt-out’ to an ‘opt-in’ model ensures that consumers have greater control over their expenses.
Key Changes Ahead
DGCA has outlined seven services that can be excluded from the ticket cost, potentially leading to significantly lower base fares:
- Passenger seat selection charges
- Meal/snacks/drink charges
- Charges for using airline lounges
- Check-in baggage charges
- Sports equipment charges
- Musical equipment charges
Special fees for valuable baggage declaration
Empowering Passengers with Choice
In addition to the above changes, scheduled airlines will now be permitted to offer ‘zero baggage/no-check-in baggage fares’
while still providing free baggage allowance as part of their baggage policy.
Passengers will also receive clear information about applicable charges for check-in luggage,
both at the airline counter and on their tickets.
This bold initiative by DGCA marks a significant step towards making air travel more accessible and affordable for passengers across the board.
Stay tuned for further updates as the aviation industry adapts to these new regulations.
