Government announces fare hike for air travel

The government has announced an increase in fares for air travel by up to Rs 5,600. As per aviation experts, the reason behind the hike is the fuel price rise. The upper price band on 180-210-minute flights, which is currently capped at Rs 18,600, will be raised by about 30 per cent to Rs 24,200. On the shortest route for the minimum price band, the price will be increased by 10 per cent. Further, the Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) has announced that the cap on the number of domestic flights that Indian airlines are permitted to operate will remain at 80 per cent of their pre-Covid levels till March 31, 2021, or till the summer schedule begins.