DGCA Directs Airlines to Prioritize Child Safety
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has issued a directive to all airlines, requiring them to allocate seats for children below 12 years of age next to at least one of their parents or guardians on flights booked under the same reservation. This decision was made in response to concerns raised about instances where children were not seated with their caregivers, potentially compromising their safety and well-being.
To ensure compliance, the DGCA has modified the existing Air Transport Circular 01 of 2021, specifically addressing the seating arrangements for young passengers. Airlines are now mandated to maintain a record of child-parent seating assignments.
Unbundled Services Revision
In a related move, the DGCA has also revised the Air Transport Circular (ATC)-01 of 2024, titled “Unbundle of Services and Fees by Scheduled Airlines.” The revision allows airlines to offer certain services as optional extras, such as zero baggage, preferential seating, meals/snacks/drinks, and charges for carrying musical instruments. However, the DGCA emphasizes that these services remain non-mandatory.
Enhanced Passenger Experience
The DGCA’s latest directives aim to improve the safety and overall experience of airline passengers, particularly families traveling with young children. By ensuring that children are seated with their parents or guardians, the regulator seeks to minimize any potential risks and provide peace of mind to travelers.
