India, Dec. 7 -- The Union government on Saturday imposed upper limits on domestic airfares in an attempt to curb sudden price surges, last-minute fare spikes, and passenger distress during the festive and holiday season. The civil aviation ministry issued an order capping maximum ticket prices for sectors ranging from 500 km to over 1,500 km.

Minister of state for civil aviation Muralidhar Mohol said the decision was taken to prevent arbitrary fare hikes by airlines and ensure that air travel remains accessible.

"Airlines often cancel flights at the last minute, and during festivals and holidays, ticket prices rise indiscriminately. To prevent financial loss to passengers and ensure that air travel remains accessible, the ministry has ...