The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), the regulatory body overseeing aviation in India, has issued a directive aimed at ensuring the safety and well-being of young travelers. In response to reported incidents where children under the age of 12 were not seated alongside their parents or guardians during flights, the DGCA has mandated that airlines take proactive measures to address this concern.
Under the new directive, airlines are required to allocate seats for children up to the age of 12 with at least one of their parents or guardians who are traveling on the same booking reference (PNR). This arrangement aims to enhance the comfort and security of young passengers by ensuring they have appropriate supervision throughout the journey. Airlines must maintain records of these seat allocations to ensure compliance with the regulation.
The DGCA's press release emphasized that this directive aligns with efforts to enhance passenger experience and safety within the aviation sector. Additionally, the regulator has updated its guidelines regarding the unbundling of services and associated fees by scheduled airlines. While certain services such as zero baggage allowance, preferential seating, and meal/snack/drink charges are permitted under this framework, they are provided on an "opt-in" basis and are not mandatory.
Furthermore, the press note highlights the provision for auto seat assignment for passengers who have not selected their seats during web check-in before departure. This feature aims to streamline the boarding process and ensure efficient seat allocation for all passengers.
India's aviation sector is experiencing rapid growth, with domestic air traffic witnessing a significant increase. Against this backdrop, the DGCA's directive reflects the commitment to prioritizing passenger safety and convenience amidst the evolving landscape of civil aviation.
