Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

New Delhi, Dec 6: In a major intervention to curb soaring ticket prices triggered by widespread disruptions in IndiGo operations, the Ministry of Civil Aviation on Saturday imposed a nationwide cap on domestic airfares.

The temporary price ceiling, introduced in the public interest, is aimed at preventing airlines from charging excessive fares amid reduced capacity and mass cancellations since December 4.

Under the new structure, airlines cannot exceed the following maximum one-way economy class fares (taxes excluded):

• Up to 500 km: Rs 7,500
• 500–1,000 km: Rs 12,000
• 1,000–1,500 km: Rs 15,000
• Over 1,500 km: Rs 18,000

The caps apply only to economy class on regular commercial flights; business class and UDAN services are exempt. The ministry has not yet clarified whether premium economy falls within the capped category.

The decision follows a sudden surge in last-minute airfares across major routes, as online travel portals reflected steep increases due to a demand–capacity mismatch. The government has said it will monitor fares in real time and coordinate with airlines and booking platforms to ensure full compliance. Any violation will invite “immediate corrective action.”

Directives to IndiGo

Alongside the fare cap, the aviation ministry has issued two strict instructions to IndiGo:

• All pending refunds for cancelled or disrupted flights must be completed by 8 PM on Sunday, December 7.
• All misplaced baggage must be traced and delivered to passengers’ homes or preferred locations within 48 hours.

These measures are expected to stabilise domestic airfare volatility and ease passenger distress until IndiGo’s operational capacity returns to normal.