Airfare Alert: Authorities Act Against Abnormal Hikes

To protect the interests of air travelers and curb fraudulent practices, the Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism has directed airlines and travel agency owners to clearly print the agency’s name, license number, and the ticket’s selling price on all air tickets.

In a statement issued on Thursday, 21 August, the ministry noted that the instructions issued in a circular on 11 February to prevent abnormal airfare hikes have not been properly followed. “Although the circular directed that the selling price be clearly printed on tickets, instances of non-compliance have been observed,” the statement said.

The notification emphasized, “To safeguard the interests of air passengers, all travel agencies must clearly indicate the agency’s name, license number, and ticket selling price on air tickets.”

It further advised travelers to verify whether the purchased ticket properly displays the selling price and agency information, warning, “Tickets must not be purchased from unregistered travel agencies under any circumstances.”

The ministry added, “If evidence is found of abnormal ticket price hikes or involvement in syndicate practices by any travel agency, strict actions will be taken, including cancellation of the agency’s registration.”