Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu stated that the government is working to prevent the impact of the ongoing war from affecting the aviation sector’s passengers. He emphasized the importance of maintaining affordable air travel despite potential increases in oil prices and Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF). The government is collaborating with airlines and various ministries, including civil aviation, external affairs, and petroleum and natural gas, to address the evolving situation and minimize disruptions.
Naidu described the coordination as a “multi-departmental exercise,” with continuous feedback from airlines to ensure operational efficiency and passenger welfare. He announced new initiatives to enhance the passenger experience, building on the expansion of India’s aviation network through the UDAN scheme. Airlines have been instructed to provide at least 60% of seats free of charge for seat selection to alleviate concerns about additional fees.
Moreover, airlines are encouraged to be more accommodating regarding passengers carrying sports equipment and musical instruments, adhering to safety regulations. Efforts are underway to establish clear pet travel policies across all airlines. The government is also focused on raising awareness about passenger rights, including compensation for delays, cancellations, and other disruptions, with plans to widely publicize these guidelines in regional languages for better accessibility.
Addressing operational challenges, Naidu mentioned that certain airports in West Asia are presently non-operational due to the current situation. However, the government is actively engaging with airlines and international regulators to ensure seamless travel on critical routes. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to prioritizing passenger convenience and implementing measures to fortify the aviation ecosystem while safeguarding travelers from external impacts.
