SC Asks Centre To Submit Airfare Regulation Framework In Sealed Cover
SC seeks government rules on airline fare regulation.
The Supreme Court has directed the Centre to submit the rules framed for regulating airfares before it in a sealed cover within two weeks. The direction came after the government informed the court that a regulatory framework to address airfare pricing issues has already been prepared and is expected to be placed before Parliament within 30 days.
A bench comprising Justices Vikram Nath and Sandeep Mehta was hearing a petition seeking guidelines to control sudden fluctuations in air ticket prices and prevent alleged unfair pricing practices by airlines. The petition has raised concerns over high fares during peak travel periods and sought stronger consumer protection measures in the aviation sector.
During the hearing, the Centre informed the court that the rules for regulating airfare pricing have been drafted and will be presented before both Houses of Parliament as per the required procedure. Taking note of the submission, the bench directed the government to provide a copy of the rules to the court within two weeks, regardless of whether they have been tabled in Parliament by then.
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The petition before the court has sought several measures, including restrictions on excessive surge pricing, regulation of baggage and other additional charges, standardised cancellation and refund policies, and the creation of an independent aviation regulator with powers to safeguard passenger interests. The plea argues that existing mechanisms are insufficient to address sharp and unpredictable changes in airfare rates.
The issue gained wider attention during an earlier hearing on January 21, when the Supreme Court expressed concern over significant airfare increases during festivals and major public events. The bench had questioned airlines over steep price hikes during occasions such as the Kumbh Mela and observed that fares on certain routes had risen to nearly three times their usual levels during peak demand periods.
The Supreme Court has now scheduled the matter for further hearing on August 3, after the Centre submits the proposed airfare regulation rules. The court will examine the framework and consider the next course of action regarding regulation of ticket pricing and passenger protection in the aviation industry.
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