DGCA Urges Airlines to Boost Flights for Festive Season

As the festive season approaches, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has taken steps to ensure that air travel remains accessible and affordable. The DGCA has reviewed airfare trends and urged airlines to increase their flight capacities to meet the expected surge in passenger demand during this busy period.

In a proactive move, the DGCA engaged with major airlines to discuss the need for additional flights. Following these discussions, several airlines have announced plans to operate extra flights. IndiGo will add approximately 730 flights across 42 sectors, while Air India and Air India Express will together operate around 486 additional flights across 20 sectors. SpiceJet is also set to contribute with about 546 extra flights covering 38 sectors.

The DGCA is committed to maintaining strict oversight of airfares and flight capacities to protect passengers' interests. A senior official stated, "We are ensuring that airlines operate enough flights to meet the surge in demand and that ticket prices remain reasonable during the festive period."

The festive months of October to December typically see increased travel due to major festivals like Diwali, Dussehra, and Christmas. This often leads to fare hikes on popular routes. To combat this, the DGCA has been directed to monitor fare patterns closely and take necessary actions to prevent unjustified price increases.

In recent years, the DGCA has enhanced its monitoring mechanisms to improve transparency and safety in the aviation sector. Following a serious incident earlier this year, the regulator has also conducted special audits to ensure compliance with safety norms across airlines and maintenance organizations.

With the addition of 1,762 flights by various airlines, passengers can expect more options and better fare choices during the festive rush. The ministry has also established an online system to help travelers monitor fares and protect against exploitative pricing, ensuring a smoother travel experience during this peak season.