The Director General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has issued a new circular dated 23 April, calling for airlines to unbundle services and fees.
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This could mean lower base airfares for customers, as charges for check-in baggage, preferential seating, and other services may soon become optional add-ons rather than mandatory fees.
This significant move comes from feedback that many passengers may not require all the services provided by the airlines. Under the new rule, consumers can have the option to charge for additional services while enjoying more affordable base fares.
The services to be charged separately on an opt-in basis include preferential seating, meal, and drink charges, airline lounges, check-in baggage, sports equipment, musical instrumental carriage, and more. Airlines will be free to set charges for these services, but they must be offered on an "Opt-in" basis to avoid any confusion among passengers.
Lastly, the DGCA mandates that there be no discrimination against passengers with disabilities or reduced mobility and requires airlines to ensure that all children below the age of 12 are allocated seats with at least one parent or guardian travelling on the same booking.
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