New Air Travel Rules 2026: Centre Mandates 60% Free Seats, Big Relief for Flyers; All You Need To Know
Business
The Ministry of Civil Aviation today has introduced a new set of air travel rules in India, bringing big changes for flyers. The guidelines, issued through the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), speak more about affordability and passenger convenience.
List of All The Big Changes in New Air Travel Rules:
60% Airline Seats to Be Free: One of the biggest highlights of the new DGCA air travel rules is that at least 60% of seats on every flight must be allocated free of charge. This new rule will be very helpful, especially during peak travel periods when ticket prices surge, and will also provide fair access to airline seats to everyone.
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 “>
Families to Get Seats Together on Flights: Under the new aviation rules for passengers, airlines must make sure that passengers booked under the same PNR are seated together, preferably in adjacent seats.
New Rules for Luggage, Pets, and Sports Equipment: The MoCA has also directed airlines to introduce clear and transparent policies regarding the following:
- Carriage of sports equipment
- Transport of musical instruments
- Pet travel policies in flights
Strict Enforcement of Passenger Rights: The government has stressed strict compliance with the passenger rights framework in India, especially in situations like flight delays & cancellations or even when boarding is denied. Airlines will now be required to clearly communicate compensation rules, refunds, and entitlements.
Passenger Rights to Be Displayed Clearly: Another major change is that all airlines in India must very specifically display passenger rights across airline websites, mobile apps, booking platforms and also at airport counters.
Additionally, all information must be made available in regional languages, ensuring better understanding for passengers across India.
Better Travel Experience For People
India, which is now the 3rd largest domestic aviation market, handles over 500,000 passengers daily, and the government says these reforms will make air travel more accessible and passenger-friendly.
