The Supreme Court on Monday raised serious concern over steep surge in airfares during busy travel periods and festivals, saying such pricing often becomes unfair and “exploitative”. The court said it would “definitely interfere” and issue suitable orders to bring the problem under check.
Justice Vikram Nath, who was leading the two-judge bench, pointed out that airfares shoot up sharply during major events like the Kumbh Mela and other festivals. He noted that ticket prices on routes such as Delhi to Prayagraj and Delhi to Jodhpur increased to nearly three times the usual cost during these times. He made these observations while hearing submissions from Additional Solicitor General Anil Kaushik, who appeared for the Centre.
What does the petition say?
The bench was hearing a public interest petition filed by social activist S Laxminarayanan which calls for an independent system to regulate airfares that ensures clear pricing.
It questions the airline pricing system that relies on algorithms, sudden fare increases on the day of travel, and the cut in free check-in baggage from 25 kg to 15 kg.
It explains that air ticket prices can rise sharply within a few hours because of dynamic pricing. The plea points to sharp jumps in airfares during the Maha Kumbh and after the Pahalgam terror attack.
It says sudden price changes hurt passengers who cannot book tickets in advance. In cases like medical emergencies, natural disasters, or urgent family needs, people have no option but to fly, often paying very high fares.
Air travel is an essential service, says petition
The petition also says air travel is an essential service under the Essential Services Maintenance Act, 1981. It adds that the government has a responsibility to make sure such services stay affordable and are not used to overcharge passengers.
The plea notes that, unlike sectors such as railways, electricity, and postal services, airlines can raise or change fares several times a day without clear rules or monitoring.