Govt steps in to ensure fair airfares
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) has invoked its regulatory powers to enforce fair and reasonable fares across affected routes during the IndiGo disruption. An official directive requires all airlines to adhere strictly to prescribed fare caps, which will remain until operations stabilise.
The ministry will monitor fares in real time and coordinate with airlines and travel platforms. Any deviation will trigger immediate corrective action.
Sharp rise in last-minute fares
Delhi-Mumbai tickets on Air India peaked at Rs 60,000, Chennai-Delhi fares on Air India Express reached Rs 41,000, while SpiceJet quoted fares as high as Rs 69,000.
MoCA stressed that the move aims to protect passengers from exploitation, maintain market discipline, and ensure urgent travellers—including senior citizens, students, and patients—are not financially burdened.
IndiGo instructed to process all refunds
IndiGo has been directed to clear all pending passenger refunds by 8:00pm (local time) on Sunday, December 7, and must not charge rescheduling fees. Dedicated passenger support and refund facilitation cells have been ordered to proactively assist travellers and manage refunds efficiently. The automatic refund system will continue until operations return to normal.
Baggage and passenger support
The airline must trace and deliver separated baggage within 48 hours, maintain communication with passengers, and provide compensation as per passenger rights regulations.
Ongoing ministry oversight
MoCA continues to coordinate with airlines, airports, and security agencies to protect passenger rights. Special attention is being given to senior citizens, differently-abled passengers, students, patients, and urgent travellers, with authorities committed to restoring operational normalcy at the earliest.