DGCA Directs Airlines: 60% Free Seats, Family Seating, Transparent Policies for Luggage and Pets

The Ministry of Civil Aviation has issued a set of new directions to domestic airlines aimed at improving passenger experience, transparency, and fairness in air travel. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) announced the measures on Wednesday.

The Ministry has issued the following directions through the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA):

1. Minimum 60% of seats on any flight to be allocated free of charge to ensure fair access
2. Passengers travelling on the same PNR to be seated together, preferably in…

— MoCA_GoI (@MoCA_GoI) March 18, 2026

Key Directions for Airlines Free Seat Allocation: At least 60% of seats on any domestic flight must be allocated free of charge to ensure fair access for passengers. Family Seating: Passengers traveling on the same PNR should be seated together, preferably in adjacent seats. Luggage and Pet Policies: Airlines must provide transparent, passenger-friendly arrangements for carrying sports equipment and musical instruments, and clearly communicate policies for carrying pets, subject to safety regulations. Passenger Rights Enforcement: Strict adherence to the passenger rights framework, particularly during delays, cancellations, and denied boarding. Visibility of Rights: Passenger rights must be prominently displayed across airline websites, mobile apps, booking platforms, and airport counters. Regional Language Communication: Clear communication of passenger entitlements in regional languages to ensure wider accessibility and awareness. Civil Aviation Minister K Rammohan Naidu emphasized that the measures are part of the government’s ongoing efforts to enhance passenger experience, reduce grievances, and uphold safety standards across the aviation ecosystem. “These initiatives reflect our commitment to making domestic air travel fair, transparent, and passenger-friendly for all,” the ministry said in an official release.