Centre imposes strict caps on domestic air fares from Rs 7500 to Rs 18000 based on distance

Finally, some good news for millions for travellers across the country! Centre slammed the brakes on skyrocketing airfares by slapping strict maximum price caps on all domestic flights across India. With IndiGo’s meltdown still causing chaos and some tickets touching above Rs 50,000 for short routes, the Ministry of Civil Aviation stepped in with an emergency order that no airline can now charge more than Rs 7,500 for flights up to 500 kms, Rs 12,000 for 500-1,000 kms, Rs 15,000 for 1,000-1,500 kms and Rs 18,000 for travel above 1500 kms. Business-class fares and RCS-UDAN flights have been exempted.

These limits cover base fare only (taxes and fees extra) and apply to every booking—whether bought directly from the airline or through any travel website—until the crisis ends and prices stabilise.The move comes as a direct response to passengers being forced to pay unexpectedly high and absurd amounts just to reach home for weddings, exams, medical treatments or funerals. “This is in public interest,” the Ministry of Civil Aviation stated clearly, warning airlines of immediate action if they try to bypass the caps. These fare ceilings excludes UDF, PSF and taxes.

The new rules also force carriers to keep seats available in every price bucket and quickly add extra flights wherever demand surges, so last-minute travellers won't be punished with inflated rates. For the first time in years, the government has used its strongest powers to control air fares during a crisis, sending a clear message: airlines cannot profit from passenger pain. With refunds already ordered to be cleared by Sunday evening and now prices under control, travellers can finally breathe easier and plan their journeys without fear of breaking the bank.