In recent years, the airline industry has significantly shifted its revenue model, increasingly relying on additional fees. These fees, which range from seat selection and in-flight snacks to luggage charges, now form a substantial part of airline business strategies. However, a specific fee charged by IndiGo has recently caught public attention.
The discussion began when a lawyer’s post on X (formerly Twitter) about IndiGo’s “Cute Fee” gained traction. Not only did the lawyer’s post attract attention, but so did IndiGo’s response to his query.
Advocate Questions IndiGo’s ‘Cute Fee’
Shrayansh Singh, a lawyer and frequent traveler, sparked the conversation by sharing a screenshot of his IndiGo ticket on X, where a Rs 50 “Cute Fee” was listed. In a playful tone, Singh asked if the airline was charging customers for being “cute” or if it considered its airplanes to be “cute.” He further expressed his dissatisfaction, questioning the necessity of other charges like the “User Development Fee” and the “Aviation Security Fee.”
In his post, Singh wrote:
“Dear @IndiGo6E, What is this ‘Cute Fee’? Do you charge users for being cute? Or do you charge because you believe that your aeroplanes are cute?”
He continued to inquire:
“What is this ‘User Development Fee’? How do you develop me when I travel in your aeroplane? What is this ‘Aviation Security Fee’? Am I not paying taxes to the Government for ensuring my safety when I travel?”
Dear @IndiGo6E ,
1. What is this ‘Cute Fee’? Do you charge users for being cute? Or do you charge because you believe that your aeroplanes are cute?
2. What is this ‘User Development Fee’? How do you develop me when I travel in your aeroplane?
3. What is this ‘Aviation… pic.twitter.com/i4jWvXh6UM
— Shrayansh Singh (@_shrayanshsingh) August 19, 2024
IndiGo’s Response to the Advocate’s Query
IndiGo responded by explaining that the “Cute Fee” refers to charges for “Common User Terminal Equipment.” These fees, the airline clarified, are meant to cover the costs of airport infrastructure, including escalators, metal detectors, and other equipment that ensures a safe and convenient travel experience for passengers.
Hi, we would like to inform you that the Cute charges refer to the Common User Terminal Equipment charge. It is basically the amount that is charged for the use of metal-detecting machines, escalators, and other equipments that are being used at the airport. (1/3)
— IndiGo (@IndiGo6E) August 19, 2024
Isn’t this a part of airport security? Aren’t the metal detectors a property of the CISF, which is a security organisation of the govt. for the security of airports too?
The equipment being used at the airport, including the airport buildings itself, are public utility…
— Shrayansh Singh (@_shrayanshsingh) August 19, 2024
Advocate’s Response Fuels Further Debate
However, Singh was not satisfied with IndiGo’s explanation. He argued that airport infrastructure is a public service and should be covered by the taxes citizens already pay. He replied:
“Isn’t this a part of airport security? Aren’t the metal detectors a property of the CISF, which is a government security organization for airport safety? The equipment at the airport, including the buildings themselves, are public utility infrastructure. They should be maintained by the taxes we pay.”
Isn’t this a part of airport security? Aren’t the metal detectors a property of the CISF, which is a security organisation of the govt. for the security of airports too?
The equipment being used at the airport, including the airport buildings itself, are public utility…
— Shrayansh Singh (@_shrayanshsingh) August 19, 2024
The Exchange Sparks Widespread Discussion
The exchange quickly gained attention, with many X users joining the debate. Some supported Singh, speculating that airlines might soon start charging for basic necessities like oxygen at airports. Others defended the airline, noting that such fees are common worldwide.
Also, ticket ke baad 400 Rs. seat ke bhi do. Badi nainsafi. As if traveling standing in flight is an option. 🥲
— Saurav Nagar (@sauravnagar0404) August 19, 2024
Soon enough, they’ll start delaying flights even more, make us sit at the airport for over two hours, and then charge us a “chair fee” for using the seats while we wait!
— Vipin Tiwari (@Vipintiwari952) August 19, 2024
Sir, the taxes we pay are used to fund freebies by parties so that they can be in power.
These taxes of airport, road, security – we have to pay so that they can maintain these things.
— Yash Lahoti (@YvLahoti) August 19, 2024
Arre bhai, pehli baar travel kar rahe ho kya? This has been part of all air tickets since ages and all airlines charge it, not only indigo.
— Krishna Pophale (@krishnapophale) August 20, 2024
This conversation highlights the growing frustration among travelers regarding what they perceive as excessive or unnecessary charges by airlines.
What are your thoughts on this new fee? Share your opinions with us in the comments section.4o
