• Source:JND
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The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) announced that the ministry has reviewed current airfare trends ahead of the upcoming festive season. Airlines have been urged to increase flight capacity to meet the expected surge in passenger demand.

Acting on the directive from the Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA), the DGCA engaged with the airlines, especially during peak travel timings. 

In response, airlines informed that they are adding the following additional flights:

  • IndiGo: Deployment of approx. 730 additional flights across 42 sectors.

  • Air India & Air India Express: Deployment of approx. 486 additional flights across 20 sectors.

  • SpiceJet: Deployment of approx. 546 additional flights across 38 sectors.

The ministry further assured its assistance to maintain rigorous oversight of airfares and flight capacities, keeping passenger safety in mind. 

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A senior DGCA official stated that the aviation regulator will maintain close monitoring of airfares and flight capacities to safeguard the interests of passengers. “We are ensuring that airlines operate enough flights to meet the surge in demand and that ticket prices remain reasonable during the festive period," the official added, quoted News 18.

In recent years, the DGCA has strengthened its oversight and audit systems to improve transparency and ensure greater safety within the civil aviation sector. DGCA has increased the regular monitoring by installing special audits, which have been put in place especially after the Air India crash.

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Rising Price Of ATF Fuel During Festive Seasons

The festive season typically brings a surge in Air Turbine Fuel (ATF) prices, which make up more than 50 per cent of an airline's operating expenses. Over the past four months, ATF rates have climbed by approximately Rs 12,000 per kilolitre. 

While there was a Rs 1,300 reduction last month, the broader trend has been consistent hikes ranging from Rs 100 to Rs 1,000 each time. This upward trajectory is expected to put additional pressure on airfares during the festive period, thereby pushing ticket prices during this time.