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Govt Shields Flyers From West Asia War Impact, Unveils New Passenger Benefits

Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu stated the government is taking steps to ensure the impact of the West Asia situation on aviation, particularly fuel costs, is not passed on to passengers. He announced new passenger-friendly directives, including mandating airlines to offer at least 60% of seats free for selection and being more flexible on sports and musical equipment. The government is also working to establish clear pet travel policies and increase awareness of passenger rights and compensation. Despite operational challenges with some West Asian airports, the Centre is coordinating with airlines to minimize disruptions and prioritize passenger convenience.

Key Points: Aviation Minister: War Impact Won't Be Passed to Passengers

  • Govt shields flyers from war-driven fuel price hikes
  • Airlines must offer 60% free seat selection
  • Easier carriage of sports, musical gear
  • Clear pet travel policies being developed
  • Enhanced passenger rights awareness drive
2 min read

West Asia impact should not be passed on to flyers: Ram Mohan Naidu

Union Minister Ram Mohan Naidu says govt ensuring West Asia conflict's impact on oil & ATF prices is not transferred to flyers, announces new passenger-friendly measures.

"The impact is definitely going to be there on oil prices and Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF), but it should not be transferred to passengers. - Ram Mohan Naidu"

New Delhi, March 21

Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu on Saturday said the government is taking steps to ensure that any impact of the ongoing war situation on the aviation sector is not passed on to passengers, even as it rolls out new passenger-friendly measures.

"The impact is definitely going to be there on oil prices and Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF), but it should not be transferred to passengers," the minister told reporters, underlining the government's focus on keeping air travel affordable.

He said the Centre is in constant consultation with airlines and multiple ministries, including civil aviation, external affairs, and petroleum and natural gas, to manage the evolving situation and minimise disruptions.

Calling it a "multi-departmental exercise", Naidu said regular feedback is being taken from airlines to ensure smooth operations and protect passenger interests.

At the same time, the minister highlighted a series of new initiatives aimed at improving passenger experience, building on the expansion of India's aviation network under the UDAN scheme.

He said the government has directed airlines to offer at least 60 per cent of seats free of charge in terms of seat selection, addressing concerns over additional charges levied on passengers.

Naidu also said airlines have been asked to be more flexible in allowing passengers to carry sports equipment and musical instruments, subject to safety norms, while efforts are underway to ensure all airlines introduce clear pet travel policies.

In addition, the government is working to increase awareness about passenger rights, including compensation in case of delays, cancellations and other disruptions. These guidelines will be widely publicised, including in regional languages, to ensure better accessibility.

Highlighting operational challenges, the minister said some airports in West Asia are currently non-operational due to the prevailing situation, but the government is actively coordinating with airlines and international regulators to ensure smooth travel on key routes.

He reiterated that passenger convenience remains a priority and the government will continue to take measures to strengthen the aviation ecosystem while shielding travellers from external shocks.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
The seat selection fee waiver is a game-changer! I recently booked tickets for my parents and had to pay extra just so they could sit together. These hidden charges are a real pain. Hope airlines implement this properly.
R
Rohit P
Good intentions, but the proof will be in the implementation. Who will bear the cost if ATF prices shoot up? Will it be the government via subsidies or will airlines be forced to absorb losses? The economics needs to be clear.
S
Sarah B
The focus on passenger rights in regional languages is excellent. My grandmother always feels anxious flying because she doesn't understand the rules in English. Making information accessible is true empowerment.
V
Vikram M
Coordinating with External Affairs and Petroleum ministries shows a whole-of-government approach. The West Asia situation is volatile, and our citizens travelling there need assurance. Hope the back-channel talks are effective in keeping routes open.
K
Kavya N
Pet travel policies! Finally! It's so stressful moving with a pet within India. Each airline has different, confusing rules. A clear, uniform policy will be a blessing for pet parents. 🐕
M
Michael C
While protecting passengers from price hikes is noble, it must be sustainable. If it leads to airline financial stress and

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