Due to operational problems at IndiGo, a large number of flights have been cancelled in a short time.
As a result, many passengers are facing serious inconvenience, and thousands are stranded at airports.
Airlines quickly took advantage of this situation by sharply increasing airfares. In some cases, ticket prices went up nearly ten times.
To control this sudden price surge, the Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) used its emergency regulatory powers to regulate airfares.
Airlines Increased Fares Amid Crisis
IndiGo, the country’s largest airline, has been dealing with operational challenges since the first week of December.
Because of this, thousands of passengers are affected by flight delays and cancellations across many cities.
Seeing this as an opportunity, several airlines raised domestic flight fares significantly.
Airfares shot up overnight, and last-minute ticket prices became much higher than usual.
Taking the matter seriously, MoCA issued an official order instructing all airlines to follow newly set fare limits on routes affected by the disruptions.
These limits will remain in place until operations return to normal.
Government Steps In to Protect Passengers
In an official statement, the government said, “The Ministry of Civil Aviation has taken serious note of the concerns regarding high airfares charged by some airlines during the current crisis.
To protect passengers from unfair pricing, the Ministry has used its regulatory powers to ensure reasonable fares on all affected routes.”
The Ministry explained that the aim of this directive is to maintain price discipline, prevent airlines from exploiting stranded passengers,
and ensure that people who urgently need to travel—such as senior citizens, students, and patients—do not face unnecessary financial stress.
The Ministry also added that the situation will be closely monitored, and strict action will be taken if any airline violates the rules.
