Pahalgam Terror Attack: Aviation Ministry Urges Airlines To Maintain Regular Fares On J&K Flights
Following the deadly terror attack in Pahalgam that claimed 26 lives, including two foreign nationals and two locals, the Ministry of Civil Aviation has taken immediate steps to ensure passenger welfare and prevent price exploitation. Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu issued a firm advisory to airline operators on Wednesday, urging them to avoid surge pricing on flights operating from Jammu and Kashmir.
A day after the tragic incident—the worst in the Valley since the Pulwama attack in 2019—the government began coordinating relief efforts, including the arrangement of emergency flights, reported Business Standard. “As part of immediate relief measures, four special flights from Srinagar — two to Delhi and two to Mumbai — have been arranged, with additional flights kept on standby to cater to further evacuation needs," the ministry stated.
Emergency Measures and Passenger Assistance
In an urgent meeting with airline representatives, Naidu emphasised the importance of supporting passengers during this sensitive period. "Shri Ram Mohan Naidu also held an urgent meeting with all airline operators and issued a strong advisory against surge pricing. Airlines have been directed to maintain regular fare levels, ensuring that no passenger is burdened during this sensitive time," the ministry added.
Airlines were also directed to collaborate with state governments to facilitate the transport of deceased individuals to their respective states.
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) stepped in as well, urging airlines to "take swift action" to increase flight frequencies from Srinagar in response to the sharp spike in demand from stranded tourists. The DGCA stressed the need for "uninterrupted" connectivity and also instructed airlines to waive cancellation and rescheduling charges to support affected travellers.
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Carriers Respond with Waivers and Extra Flights
Indian carriers responded swiftly to the crisis. Akasa Air introduced full refunds and one free rescheduling, including fare difference waivers—for tickets on flights to and from Srinagar from April 23 to 29. IndiGo implemented similar waivers for travel until April 30, applicable to tickets booked on or before April 22, and added more flights connecting Srinagar with Delhi and Mumbai on April 23.
Air India deployed two special flights from Srinagar to Delhi and Mumbai, scheduled for departure at 11.30 AM and 12 Noon respectively on April 23. All regular services remain operational, and the airline announced complimentary rescheduling and full refunds for all confirmed bookings on these routes through April 30.
According to aviation data provider Cirium, Srinagar has seen a 17 per cent rise in weekly flights over the past year, with 676 flights currently operating weekly—a reflection of the region’s growing appeal as a tourist destination prior to the latest attack.
Meanwhile, the Civil Aviation Ministry confirmed that Naidu has been in direct contact with Home Minister Amit Shah and is closely monitoring the evolving situation in consultation with all relevant authorities. "The Ministry of Civil Aviation remains on high alert and committed to extending every possible assistance to those affected," the official statement said.
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