New Delhi

The Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) has taken action to address concerns over unusually high airfares charged by some airlines during ongoing flight disruptions.

To protect passengers from opportunistic pricing, the Ministry has invoked its regulatory powers to enforce fair and reasonable fares across all affected routes. Airlines have been issued a directive mandating strict adherence to prescribed fare caps, which will remain in place until services stabilise.

The Ministry emphasised that the measure aims to prevent exploitation of travellers, particularly senior citizens, students, and patients who urgently need to travel. Real-time monitoring of fares will continue, and any violations will invite immediate corrective action.

MoCA has also instructed airlines, especially IndiGo, to take urgent measures to resolve operational disruptions. According to the orders:

Flight schedules are expected to stabilise and return to normal by midnight.

Full service and operational stability should be restored over the next few days.

Passengers can track delays through airline information systems.

Automatic full refunds will be provided for cancelled flights.

Stranded passengers will be accommodated in hotels, with special attention to senior citizens, including lounge access.

Delayed flight passengers will be provided refreshments and essential services.

A 24x7 control room at MoCA is monitoring the situation continuously.

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The Ministry assured that the Central Government is in constant consultation with airlines and other stakeholders, and all possible measures, including rule exemptions announced by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation, will be taken to restore schedules and mitigate passengers’ difficulties.