The Supreme Court of India has stepped in to address the growing complaints regarding skyrocketing flight ticket prices and reduced baggage limits. A bench comprising Justice Vikram Nath and Justice Sandeep Mehta heard a petition highlighting the steep rise in airfares during festivals and holidays. The court has issued a notice to the Central Government and asked for a detailed response within four weeks regarding these concerns.
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Why is the Supreme Court concerned about Airfares?
The court highlighted that private airlines often increase ticket prices by up to three times during major festivals and events. The bench observed this trend in flights to cities like Prayagraj and Jodhpur during busy seasons. The petition termed this surge pricing as unfair to common passengers who struggle to afford tickets during urgent travel or family gatherings.
Another major issue raised in the petition is the reduction of the free check-in baggage limit. Airlines have cut down the free allowance from 25 kg to 15 kg. Due to this change, passengers often end up paying heavy charges for carrying their normal luggage. The petition argues that this puts an extra financial burden on travelers who are already paying high prices for tickets.
What was the Government’s response?
During the hearing on February 23, 2026, the Centre informed the court that the matter is being taken seriously. Additional Solicitor General Anil Kaushik stated that the Ministry of Civil Aviation is reviewing the issue at the “highest level”. The Solicitor General has also called for a high-level meeting to discuss the regulation of airfares and baggage rules.
The Supreme Court has scheduled the next hearing for March 23, 2026. By then, the government is expected to file its reply. The petitioner has requested that the aviation sector be treated as an essential service with capped fares, similar to how the railways operate, to prevent arbitrary pricing by airlines.
