India to advise airlines on reasonable festive season airfares

The Indian government has decided not to impose a cap on airfares for the upcoming festive season. Instead, Civil Aviation Minister K Rammohan Naidu stated that the government will advise airlines to maintain reasonable pricing to ensure travelers can benefit during this period.

Naidu noted that aviation companies are facing increased operating costs, primarily driven by rising Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF) prices. He attributed the surge in fuel costs to the ongoing crisis in West Asia. According to the minister, ATF accounts for approximately 40% to 43% of airfares, meaning even minor fluctuations in fuel prices directly impact ticket costs.