India’s Supreme Court has mandated the central government to formulate an official response within four weeks regarding escalating domestic airfare concerns, marking a significant judicial intervention in aviation consumer protection. The court’s directive addresses what it termed “very serious concerns” about volatile pricing structures and ancillary charges imposed by private carriers during peak travel periods.
This judicial action follows a petition filed by social activist and frequent air traveler S. Laxminarayanan, who challenged what he described as “unchecked, opaque and exploitative” pricing practices within India’s domestic aviation sector. The petition argues that despite aviation services falling under the Essential Services Maintenance Act, passengers face excessive charges through dynamic pricing mechanisms that disproportionately affect middle-class and economically vulnerable travelers.
The controversy centers on fare structures that multiply several times above normal rates during long weekends, school vacations, and major festivals. Judicial observations noted specific examples where fares between Prayagraj and Jodhpur tripled during popular festivals, creating financial barriers for families seeking to travel within the country.
Additional Solicitor General Anil Kaushik informed the court that the government is examining the issue “at the highest level,” indicating serious administrative engagement with the pricing crisis. The government sought and received a four-week period to develop a comprehensive response, with the next hearing scheduled for March 23.
Notably, the petition specifically addresses domestic airfares, excluding international routes including India-Gulf sectors that have previously drawn complaints from non-resident Indian communities. The Kerala High Court had previously directed advocacy groups to approach the Competition Commission of India regarding international fare concerns.
The petition additionally highlights reduced free baggage allowances from 25kg to 15kg and steep excess baggage fees, calling for regulatory measures including binding fare norms, surge pricing limits, baggage fee regulation, and establishment of an independent aviation watchdog to protect consumer rights.