Govt Caps Airfares Amid IndiGo Crisis to Curb Opportunistic Pricing

• Union government imposed maximum fare caps on domestic flights due to severe IndiGo disruptions and sudden fare hikes.
• The Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) issued orders in 'public interest' to prevent exploitation and ensure fair pricing.
• New maximum fares for economy class domestic travel are distance-based, e.g., Rs. 7,500 for up to 500 km and Rs. 18,000 for beyond 1500 km.
• Airlines must comply with caps, provide alternative flights, and not charge rescheduling fees for cancelled flights.
• Civil Aviation Minister Rammohan Naidu announced the decision, emphasizing protection for passengers.

Why It Matters: Government caps airfares to protect travelers from price gouging during disruptions.