Pune: Airlines Face Scrutiny After Price Hikes In Wake Of Kashmir Attack; Centre To Introduce Policy To Regulate Airfares During Crises
Pune, 25th April 2025: The Central Government has taken serious note of the steep hike in airfares by some airlines following the recent terrorist attack on tourists in Kashmir. In response, it has announced plans to develop a permanent policy mechanism to regulate passenger fares during times of natural disasters and human-made crises.
Minister of State for Civil Aviation, Murlidhar Mohol, stated that the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) will formulate this new policy. He also issued a stern warning to airlines, indicating that any unjustified increase in fares during emergencies would lead to strict action.
The issue came to light after the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, where panic-stricken tourists sought immediate return travel. Reports emerged that airlines had significantly increased ticket prices during this period of distress. The backlash was swift, with criticism directed at both the Central Government and the airlines for failing to control the situation.
The government was eventually forced to intervene, ordering airlines to reduce their fares. In addition, special flights were arranged to evacuate stranded tourists from Kashmir to their home states. However, aviation experts emphasized the need for a structured response, urging the government to establish a policy that would prevent airlines from exploiting such situations in the future.
Officials stressed that during times of crisis—whether natural or man-made—airlines are expected to act with sensitivity, empathy, and a sense of moral responsibility. Profiteering at such times not only reflects poorly on the industry but also forces repeated government intervention. As a result, the Centre has acknowledged the importance of a regulatory framework to ensure fair and humane practices during emergencies.
