MoCA Mandates Fare Caps: Shielding Flyers from Surge Pricing Chaos

Fare Regulation Clampdown

The Ministry of Civil Aviation escalated intervention by prescribing binding fare caps across all affected routes, responding to complaints of unusually high prices during IndiGo's crew shortages and over 1,000 cancellations. Official directives require airlines to comply strictly, with the caps enforced until operations normalize fully. This addresses opportunistic hikes on high-demand sectors, prioritizing affordability for stranded travelers including vulnerable groups.​

Key Highlights

Fare Caps Activated: Prescribed limits on all disrupted routes remain until full stability; no deviations tolerated.​

Regulatory Invocation: Powers exercised to ensure fair, reasonable pricing amid ongoing disruptions.​

Airline Directives: Strict adherence mandated; DGCA monitors compliance with corrective actions for breaches.​

Public Interest Focus: Targets unusually high fares charged during crisis, safeguarding consumers.​

Enforcement Timeline: Caps persist post-normalization if needed; high-level probe continues.​

Sources: Ministry of Civil Aviation