Top court flags exorbitant surge in airfares during festivals, calls it ‘exploitative’, Pg12

Key Highlights:

• The Supreme Court has raised concerns about the "exploitative" surge in airfares during festivals and peak seasons.
• A PIL has been filed seeking regulatory guidelines to control erratic airfare pricing and ancillary charges by private airlines.
• The court has indicated it will intervene, noting fare hikes during events like Kumbh Mela.
• The DGCA and AERA have been asked to respond to the plea for a regulatory mechanism ensuring transparency in airfare pricing.

Detailed Insights:

• The PIL argues that unpredictable airfare escalations and reduced flight services infringe upon citizens’ freedom of movement and dignity.
• Currently, no regulatory authority can review or cap airfares, allowing airlines to exploit consumers through hidden fees and unpredictable pricing.
• The court is considering the creation of an independent regulatory mechanism to strengthen passenger protection in the civil aviation sector.
• The next hearing on the matter is scheduled for February 23, where the Centre is expected to provide its response.

Key Concepts Involved:

• PIL (Public Interest Litigation): A lawsuit filed in the public interest, often addressing issues of broad social concern.
• DGCA (Directorate General of Civil Aviation): The regulatory body for civil aviation in India, responsible for safety and standards.
• AERA (Airports Economic Regulatory Authority of India): An organization that regulates tariffs and other charges for airport services.