India’s New Aviation Rules: 60% Free Seats, Family Seating, and Enhanced Passenger Rights

New regulations from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) in India are set to significantly improve the flying experience for passengers. Effective immediately, airlines are required to offer at least 60% of seats on every flight without any extra charge, and ensure families traveling together are seated together, preferably in adjacent seats. These changes, announced on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, aim to increase transparency and convenience for air travelers.

Minimum 60% Free Seat Allocation

Under the new rules, airlines must allocate a minimum of 60% of seats on each flight free of charge. This measure is designed to ensure fairer access to seats for all passengers, reducing the need to pay extra for preferred seating options like window or aisle seats [Indian Express]. Passengers should be able to select from these available seats without incurring additional costs beyond the base ticket price.

Family Seating Guarantee

A key component of the new DGCA guidelines is the requirement for airlines to seat passengers traveling on the same Passenger Name Record (PNR) – typically family members or those traveling in a group – together, ideally in adjacent seats [Economic Times]. This addresses a long-standing complaint from travelers who have been separated during flights, particularly when traveling with children.

Enhanced Transparency and Passenger Rights

The DGCA is also pushing for greater transparency in airline policies regarding the carriage of sports equipment, musical instruments, and pets. Airlines are directed to publish clear and passenger-friendly policies for these items, adhering to all applicable safety and operational regulations [Outlook India].

airlines are mandated to prominently display passenger rights on their websites, mobile applications, booking portals, and airport counters. Information regarding passenger entitlements must also be communicated in regional languages to improve accessibility and awareness [Indian Express]. This includes strict adherence to the passenger rights framework in cases of flight delays, cancellations, and denied boarding.

Previous Directives and International Context

This latest directive builds upon previous actions taken by the DGCA. In April 2024, the regulator mandated that airlines seat young children with at least one parent or guardian without extra charges for those traveling on the same PNR [Indian Express]. The issue of families being separated on flights has been a global concern, with even U.S. President Joe Biden calling for action to address “junk fees” for seat selection in February 2023.

Ministry’s Commitment

The Ministry of Civil Aviation stated its commitment to enhancing the passenger experience, ensuring transparency, reducing grievances, and upholding the highest safety standards across the Indian aviation ecosystem [Indian Express].