Civil Aviation Ministry to withdraw domestic airfare caps effective March 23

The decision marks the end of a price-control regime that the government initiated several months ago to manage volatility in the aviation market.

The Ministry confirmed the development through an official order, noting that the restrictions on ticket pricing are no longer required under the current operating environment.

"Whereas, vide letter dated 6th December 2025, Ministry had introduced a temporary fare cap on domestic airfares with a view to contain abnormal surge in ticket prices arising out of large-scale flight disruptions of IndiGo, and with an objective to safeguard passenger interests and ensuring affordability during a period of constrained capacity," the Ministry of Civil Aviation stated.

In the official communication, the Ministry observed that the "prevailing situation has since stabilised, with restoration of capacity and normalisation of operations across the sector." Based on this assessment, the government determined that the fare cap imposed in December "shall stand withdrawn with effect from 23rd March, 2026." This move allows airlines to once again determine ticket prices based on market demand and supply dynamics.

Despite the deregulation, the Ministry issued a clear directive to carriers regarding their pricing strategies. "While withdrawing the fare cap, it is reiterated that airlines are required to exercise pricing discipline and act responsibly. Airlines shall ensure that fares remain reasonable, transparent and commensurate with market conditions, and that passenger interests are not adversely impacted," it said.

The Ministry warned that any instance of "excessive or unjustified surge in fares" will be "viewed seriously," particularly during periods of peak "demand, further disruptions, or other exigencies."

"The Ministry will continue to closely monitor airfare trends on a real-time basis," it stated.

The Ministry "reserves the right to take appropriate regulatory or administrative measures," which could include the "re-introduction of fare controls or other interventions" if such steps are deemed necessary in the "public interest." (ANI)