Airlines Warn 60% Free Seat Rule May Hike Fares, Cite Regulatory Overreach

• Indian airlines oppose government's 60% free seat selection mandate, fearing higher airfares and financial instability.
• Federation of Indian Airlines (FIA) warns carriers may pass on costs to passengers, impacting ancillary income.
• FIA raises concerns about regulatory overreach into commercial decisions, citing legal precedents against DGCA's power to fix unbundled service charges.
• Airlines argue the directive is inconsistent with settled law and principles affirmed by the Delhi High Court.
• The industry body states no stakeholder consultation occurred before the March 18 directive and urges its withdrawal.