Local Airlines Get A Go Signal On Zero Bag Fare

Thursday, 12th November 2015 at 03:38am

All local airlines received a go signal from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) to offer a zero bag fare package to travelers. Conditions of offer include a penalty charge on those who bring in check-in luggage despite availing the promo.

The approval was announced by the DGCA through a circular issued about a week ago.

Local airlines allow up to 15-kg check-in luggage per passenger at no extra charge. Air India on the other hand allows up to 23-kg check-in luggage per passenger, also without cost.

Low-cost carrier SpiceJet lauded the DGCA's decision, stating that the zero baggage scheme is in keeping with the constantly changing preferences of today's travelers. SpiceJet was one of the first airlines which pushed for this scheme and G P Gupta, one of the officials of the airline, was elated by the DGCA's latest decision.

Last year, SpiceJet launched a scheme where a passenger can avail of Rs 200 discount if he travels without check-in luggage. He is, however, allowed to carry a single handbag.

The airline however imposes charges on passengers who avail of the discount but fail to follow the zero-baggage rule. In this case, the passenger will be charged Rs 500 and Rs 750, for 10-kg and 15-kg check-in luggage, respectively.

In April this year, the DGCA gave local airlines the go signal to charge travelers for the use of airline facilities like lounges and premium aircraft seats.

Months ago, AirAsia India, IndiGo, and SpiceJet have expressed a common desire to offer zero bag air fare wherein a passenger without check-in baggage is allowed fare discounts. However, the DGCA, following the civil aviation ministry's position on the matter, had disapproved the three airlines' initial proposal.

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