Overview
- A two-judge bench of Justices Vikram Nath and Sandeep Mehta said unpredictable price spikes amount to exploitation of passengers.
- The court directed the Centre and the DGCA to file replies to the petition, with the case listed for further hearing on February 23.
- Justices cited fares on Delhi–Prayagraj and Delhi–Jodhpur routes reported at up to three times normal levels during events such as the Kumbh.
- The PIL by social activist S. Laxminarayanan seeks a robust, independent aviation regulator and binding rules to ensure transparency and passenger protection.
- The petition alleges airlines cut free check‑in baggage for economy flyers from 25 kg to 15 kg and that no authority can review or cap fares or ancillary fees, enabling hidden charges and algorithm-driven pricing.