New Aviation Guidelines: Ensuring Fair Access and Enhanced Passenger Experience

The Ministry of Civil Aviation in India has introduced new regulations to enhance air travel, mandating that at least 60% of flight seats be allocated free of charge. These guidelines aim to improve passenger convenience and transparency, ensuring that travelers with the same PNR are seated together. The ministry also emphasizes the need for clear policies regarding the transport of sports equipment, musical instruments, and pets. With India becoming the third-largest domestic aviation market, these initiatives reflect a commitment to enhancing the overall passenger experience and maintaining high safety standards.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 18, 2026, 10:45 IST

New Regulations for Air Travel in India

New Delhi: To improve the air travel experience, the Ministry of Civil Aviation announced on Wednesday that at least 60% of seats on flights must be made available at no charge to promote equitable access.

In new guidelines issued via the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), the ministry aims to enhance passenger convenience, transparency, and consistency among airlines. It has been mandated that passengers sharing the same PNR should be seated together, ideally in adjacent seats.

The ministry also emphasized that the transport of sports gear and musical instruments should be handled in a clear and passenger-friendly manner, adhering to safety and operational regulations. Additionally, airlines are required to establish transparent policies regarding the transportation of pets.

Other directives include strict compliance with the passenger rights framework, especially concerning delays, cancellations, and denied boarding. Airlines must prominently display passenger rights on their websites, mobile apps, booking platforms, and at airport counters, along with providing information in regional languages to enhance accessibility.

India has become the third-largest domestic aviation market worldwide, with air travel increasingly accessible under the UDAN scheme. Currently, Indian airports accommodate over five lakh passengers daily, showcasing the sector's rapid expansion.

"Passenger facilitation is the top priority for the Ministry of Civil Aviation. To support this goal, the ministry has launched various initiatives aimed at improving travel ease, such as UDAN Yatri Cafes for affordable meals, Flybrary for free book access, and complimentary Wi-Fi at airports," stated an official announcement.

The Ministry remains dedicated to improving the passenger experience, ensuring transparency, minimizing complaints, and maintaining the highest safety standards throughout the aviation sector.