The Supreme Court suggested the need for “rationalization” in airfares charged by private airlines during a hearing on a PIL seeking guidelines to control price fluctuations and extra charges during festive seasons. Justices Vikram Nath and Sandeep Mehta highlighted disparities where one airline charges Rs 8,000 while another charges Rs 18,000 for the same destination in economy class. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing the Centre and DGCA, mentioned that new rules under the Bhartiya Vayuyan Adhiniyam, 2024 were being framed.
SG Mehta informed that consultations were ongoing following the enactment of the new law. He emphasized that the issue raised by the petitioner was acknowledged, but solutions would need to be through statutory rules. The petitioner’s counsel noted that under existing rules, DGCA could intervene if airlines were found charging excessive fares. However, SG Mehta clarified that directions were being issued and reiterated that new rules were in progress.
The petitioner raised concerns about airfares surging by up to 300% during holidays and requested interim directions. Despite this, the apex court declined to issue any interim orders, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive approach. The Bench led by Justice Nath granted a week for the petitioner to respond to the DGCA’s counter affidavit, setting the next hearing for July 13. Earlier, the Centre had informed the court in February about examining issues related to volatile airfares and add-on charges during festive periods.
