India’s airline industry has undergone significant evolution, marking a pivotal moment in the nation’s transportation history. From its humble beginnings, commercial aviation has experienced remarkable growth, becoming an integral component of modern connectivity.
The importance of airlines in India is undeniable. However, alongside advancements, contemporary air travel presents its own set of challenges. Issues such as airport congestion, outdated infrastructure, and airspace restrictions contribute to operational inefficiencies and flight delays. Moreover, incidents of misconduct involving both passengers and airline staff exacerbate these difficulties.
In recent times, complaints about seating arrangements have garnered attention. Instances where families, particularly those with young children, are separated during flights have raised concerns about the comfort and safety of passengers.
Such an incident recently occurred when a passenger flying with IndiGo expressed frustration on social media after their child was seated away from them.
The situation quickly gained traction, prompting IndiGo to address the matter. However, their response inadvertently fueled criticism on social media platforms.
The passenger, who boarded an IndiGo flight from Chennai to Mumbai, was dismayed to discover that their child’s seat was not adjacent to theirs. Despite fellow passengers accommodating the family by swapping seats, the passenger took to social media to highlight the issue, emphasizing the importance of “basic human decency” in seating arrangements for families traveling with children. The post went viral, drawing widespread attention across the country.
I, my wife, & our 8 & 3 year old kids, traveling on @IndiGo6E on the same PNR, allotted 4 separate seats!! We 2 will manage,but not sure about those sitting next to the kids 😂
Indigo is indeed unique. Dont think any other airline allots separate seats to 3 year olds@virsanghvi pic.twitter.com/G8JPlgYjY9— Akshay Baheti (@Dr_AkshayBaheti) March 31, 2024
Wow! This tweet really opened the floodgates for many. I really appreciate all responses. I wanted to clarify certain things.
I understand that buying seats is straightforward and inexpensive. I always do so myself. But there are times when someone might be unable to do so..— Akshay Baheti (@Dr_AkshayBaheti) April 1, 2024
..in time, be it due to traveling in poor network or a UPI or credit card transaction which gets stuck in transit or simply because they remembered a bit late by which time no two seats are available together. The point is, it shouldn't matter when it comes to a parent and..
— Akshay Baheti (@Dr_AkshayBaheti) April 1, 2024
..child on the same PNR. This is basic human decency.
For example, an airline may charge for all food & beverages, but drinking water remains free of cost. This is a similar situation.
Our fellow passengers were kind enough to adjust (there was another couple with a child in..— Akshay Baheti (@Dr_AkshayBaheti) April 1, 2024
..the same situation on the flight as well), but this moves the burden from @IndiGo6E to passengers who may have paid for the seat, which is unfair.
I hope @MoCA_GoI @Officejmscindia @JM_Scindia makes it compulsory to ensure kids on the same PNR being seated adjacent to their..— Akshay Baheti (@Dr_AkshayBaheti) April 1, 2024
..parents, no ifs and buts attached. It's really not a big ask. Do retweet to spread this!@virsanghvi @BDUTT @htTweets @writemeenal @tajmahalfoxtrot @amitvarma @dhavalkulkarni @coolfunnytshirt @DGCAIndia @CourtUnquote
— Akshay Baheti (@Dr_AkshayBaheti) April 1, 2024
In response to the escalating social media attention, IndiGo attempted to clarify the situation. However, their response failed to assuage concerns and instead exacerbated the controversy. IndiGo explained that seat assignments were based on availability at the time of airport check-in and advised customers to pre-book seats online for a smoother travel experience.
The airline’s reply sparked further backlash, with many echoing the passenger’s sentiments and criticizing IndiGo’s seat allocation policies. Concerns were raised about passenger welfare and satisfaction, with some suggesting that separating individuals into middle seats could be a deliberate tactic to boost ticket sales.
Mr Baheti, we never wish to separate a family flying together by assigning separate row seats. However, as checked, you completed your check-in at the airport, wherein the seats were assigned based on availability. (1/2)
— IndiGo (@IndiGo6E) March 31, 2024
Hence, we always recommend our customers to pre-book their preferred seats online for a hassle-free travel. ~Mitul (2/2)
— IndiGo (@IndiGo6E) March 31, 2024
Suggestions were put forward for airlines to establish clearer guidelines regarding seat allocation, particularly for families with young children, in order to mitigate potential safety risks and enhance the overall travel experience.
