DGCA advises airlines to avoid fare surge, increase Srinagar flights

In the wake of the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) issued an urgent advisory on April 23, calling on airlines to increase flight frequencies from Srinagar to help evacuate stranded tourists. The directive comes amid a sudden surge in passenger traffic, as travellers rushed to Srinagar Airport seeking to return to their respective hometowns. “In the aftermath of the incident in Pahalgam, there is an unexpected demand from tourists seeking to return to their homes,” stated the DGCA in its advisory. “In this regard, the airlines are advised to take swift action to increase the number of flights in response to heightened demand and also to ensure uninterrupted connectivity from Srinagar to various destinations across India, facilitating evacuation of stranded tourists.” The advisory further urged airlines to show compassion and flexibility by waiving cancellation and rescheduling fees. “The airlines are also requested to provide all necessary assistance to tourists facing unexpected circumstances and challenges during this difficult time,” it added. Civil Aviation Minister K Rammohan Naidu also shared updates through a post on X (formerly Twitter), affirming the government’s commitment to supporting affected tourists. “In the wake of the tragic terror attack, we are constantly making efforts to ensure safe travel of tourists from Srinagar,” he said. “Strict instructions were given to airline companies to avoid any fare surges. Fares are being monitored and kept at reasonable levels.”