January 20, 2026 : The Supreme Court has expressed serious concern over the steep rise in airfares during festive seasons, observing that such unpredictable pricing amounts to exploitation of passengers. Hearing a public interest litigation, a Bench comprising Justices Vikram Nath and Sandeep Mehta said it would step in to address arbitrary fluctuations in ticket prices.

The petition seeks binding regulatory guidelines to curb sudden hikes in airfares and additional charges levied by private airlines. Taking note of the issue, the Court directed the Union government and the Directorate General of Civil Aviation to file their responses.

The matter has been posted for further hearing on the 23rd of next month, after Additional Solicitor General Anil Kaushik sought time to submit a reply on behalf of the Centre.