Air India caps airfares, waives cancellation fees amid travel disruptions
What's the story
In light of the recent travel disruptions across India, Air India and Air India Express have announced a series of proactive measures. The airlines have capped economy-class airfares on non-stop domestic flights from December 4 onward. This move is aimed at preventing the usual demand-supply dynamics that automated revenue management systems usually apply.
Fee waiver
Waiver of change and cancellation fees introduced
Along with capping airfares, Air India and Air India Express have also introduced a special waiver of change or cancellation fees on eligible domestic bookings. This is to give passengers more flexibility amid the ongoing disruptions. Passengers who booked their flights with either carrier until December 4 for travel until December 15 can reschedule their bookings without paying any rescheduling fee within the validity of the purchased ticket.
Cancelation policy
Full refund offered for cancelations
Passengers who wish to cancel their bookings can do so without any cancellation fee being applied. The one-time waiver is applicable for changes or cancelations made by December 8. However, if there is a fare difference in case of rescheduling, it will be applicable. To help passengers with this process, Air India and Air India Express have shared their contact details for 24x7 contact centers.
Resource deployment
Additional resources deployed at contact centers
To deal with high call volumes and reduce response times, Air India and Air India Express have deployed additional resources at their 24x7 contact centers. The airlines are also maximizing seat availability across all flights on their extensive networks. Where operationally feasible, eligible Economy Class passengers will be upgraded to higher cabins at no extra cost. This is to ensure that every available seat can be utilized to help stranded travelers reach their destinations.
Extra measures
More flights and special fares introduced
Air India and Air India Express are also operating additional flights on key routes to help travelers and their baggage reach their destinations as quickly as possible. The airlines will also offer special discounted fares and benefits on their websites and mobile apps for students, senior citizens, members of the armed forces, and their dependents. This is part of their effort to provide relief amid the ongoing travel disruptions across India.