The Supreme Court asked the Centre to address sharp variations in airfares charged by airlines for the same route
May 15, 2026: Supreme Court of India on Friday urged the Centre to take steps to “rationalise” airfares after observing major differences in ticket prices charged by airlines for the same route on the same day. The court noted that economy class fares for identical sectors were varying between ₹8,000 and ₹18,000, causing hardship for passengers.
A bench comprising Justices Vikram Nath and Sandeep Mehta was hearing a public interest litigation seeking regulatory guidelines to control sudden airfare hikes and additional charges imposed by airlines during holidays, festivals, and emergencies. During the hearing, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta informed the court that the Bharatiya Vayuyan Adhiniyam, 2024 had already come into force and that rules under the new legislation were currently under consultation.
The bench, however, stressed the need for immediate relief to passengers and said there must be some level of rationalisation in airfare pricing. The petitioner argued that authorities already possess regulatory powers to act against excessive or predatory pricing but were not using them effectively. The court later posted the matter for further hearing in July while allowing the petitioner time to respond to the Centre’s affidavit.
The PIL has challenged what it described as “unregulated and exploitative” airfare practices, especially during peak travel seasons and emergencies. It also raised concerns over shrinking baggage allowances and rising ancillary charges imposed by airlines. The Centre, meanwhile, defended the deregulated pricing system, saying it had improved connectivity and affordability while assuring the court that passenger welfare remained a priority.