New Delhi: Weeks before it was set to kick in, the Centre has pressed pause on its order mandating airlines to offer 60% of seats free of charge.

The Ministry of Civil Aviation announced Thursday that the March directive has been put on hold after strong objections from carriers.

The Federation of Indian Airlines and Akasa Air flagged "operational and commercial implications," warning that the rule could disrupt fare structures and clash with India's deregulated tariff regime. The order, originally slated for April 20, would have expanded the current 20% quota of free seats, with airlines charging between Rs 200 and Rs 2,100 for seat selection depending on row and legroom.

Airlines argued the move would force them to hike fares to offset lost revenue, especially as operational costs soar due to rising aviation turbine fuel prices linked to the Iran war.

While shelving the free-seat plan, the ministry clarified that other passenger-friendly measures remain intact. These include transparency in seat allocation, ensuring families on the same PNR sit together, and clear rules for carrying musical instruments, sports gear, and pets.