Airlines vs. Govt: Air India, IndiGo, and SpiceJet Oppose 60% Free Seat Rule, Warn of Fare Hikes

In a significant confrontation that could reshape the cost of air travel in India, the nation’s largest airlines—Air India, IndiGo, and SpiceJet—have formally opposed the Ministry of Civil Aviation’s (MoCA) latest directive. The mandate, issued on March 18, 2026, requires carriers to provide at least 60% of seats for free selection on every flight. Represented by the Federation of Indian Airlines (FIA), the carriers argue that while the policy aims to protect consumers, it will ultimately lead to higher ticket prices for everyone.