IndiGo clarifies web check-in not mandatory, but recommended for a smooth experience. Netizens react
IndiGo clarifies web check-in not mandatory, but recommended for a smooth experience. Netizens react
IndiGo’s statement on web check-in, issued on October 28, emphasizes that while web check-in is not a mandatory requirement for passengers, it does offer a “hassle-free experience” for travelers. This statement likely comes in response to increasing complaints from air travelers regarding the web check-in process.
Web check-in is a feature offered by many airlines, including budget carriers like IndiGo, that allows passengers to check in for their flights online through the airline’s website or mobile app. It can provide several benefits, such as saving time at the airport by avoiding long check-in queues and allowing passengers to select their preferred seats in advance.
However, it appears that some passengers have been experiencing issues or challenges with the web check-in process, which prompted IndiGo to issue this statement. The airline wants to clarify that while web check-in is not mandatory, it is a convenient option for passengers who wish to streamline their airport experience.
The statement from IndiGo suggests that the airline is trying to encourage passengers to use web check-in as a way to enhance their overall travel experience and reduce potential hassles at the airport. However, passengers should be aware that while web check-in is optional, some airlines may offer additional services or perks to passengers who choose to use it. It’s always a good idea for travelers to check the specific policies and benefits offered by their chosen airline regarding web check-in.
Numerous air travelers have voiced their grievances, particularly concerning airlines categorizing all seats as paid, even when free web check-in is obligatory. Rohit Kumar Singh, the Consumer Affairs Secretary, noted that approximately half of the complaints received were related to issues like refunds not being issued after ticket cancellations and the practice of labeling all seats as paid despite the availability of free web check-in, among other concerns.
In response to IndiGo’s statement on X (formerly Twitter) encouraging web check-in for a hassle-free experience, one user expressed frustration by suggesting that the airline should use the term “recommended” instead of “mandatory.” This comment underscores a common source of frustration among passengers who receive mixed messages from airlines regarding the necessity of web check-in.
Other passengers questioned the airline’s practices, pointing out the discrepancy between stating that web check-in is not mandatory while still charging for seat selection. This practice has left passengers puzzled and dissatisfied, as it appears contradictory to promote the convenience of web check-in while simultaneously imposing additional charges for seat preferences.
One user strongly criticized the airline, describing the situation as “daylight robbery.” This sentiment reflects the frustration and dissatisfaction of passengers who feel that airlines, including IndiGo, are not providing transparent and fair services. The term “daylight robbery” suggests a perception of airlines exploiting passengers financially, which can lead to a loss of trust and confidence in the airline industry.
One user pointed out a specific issue with web check-in, highlighting that only middle seats in the back rows are sometimes available for free while other seats incur charges. This limitation can be problematic for passengers traveling together, as they may find it difficult to avoid the additional charges associated with web check-in. Alternatively, passengers can choose to arrive at the airport early and get seat allocations at the counter or kiosk for free. This observation underscores the complexities and inconsistencies in seat allocation policies that passengers often encounter when using web check-in services.
Another user raised a valid point about cost savings for airlines resulting from web check-in. By reducing the need for ground staff, web check-in indeed contributes to operational efficiency and cost reduction. The user argued that airlines should pass on these benefits to customers rather than charging extra for preferred seats. This sentiment reflects the expectation of passengers that airlines should offer cost-effective and fair pricing for services that enhance the overall travel experience.
In a recent report, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) highlighted that flight problems, baggage issues, and refund-related concerns were the major issues among the 246 passenger complaints received by scheduled domestic airlines in September. This report reaffirms the significance of addressing these common areas of concern to improve the overall quality of air travel services and customer satisfaction.
The air traffic report released by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) in September 2023 highlights some key statistics and issues related to passenger complaints in the Indian aviation sector. Here’s a summary of the report’s key points:
- Complaints and Complaint Rate: In September 2023, a total of 246 passenger-related complaints were received by scheduled domestic airlines. The report notes that the number of complaints per 10,000 passengers carried for the month of September 2023 was approximately 0.20. This metric provides an indication of the frequency of passenger complaints relative to the number of passengers served.
- Nature of Complaints: The report categorizes the complaints into several areas:
- Flight Problems: Flight-related issues accounted for the largest share of complaints, making up 41.9% of the total complaints.
- Baggage Issues: Baggage-related complaints were the second most common, representing 19.9% of the total complaints.
- Refunds: Complaints related to refunds constituted 15.4% of the total complaints.
- Staff Attitude and Customer Service: While some complaints were related to staff attitude (4.9%) and customer service (10.2%), these categories made up a smaller percentage of the total complaints.
- Fares: Surprisingly, only 0.4% of the complaints were related to fare issues, suggesting that pricing disputes were relatively rare.
- Complaint Resolution: The report states that out of the 246 complaints received, 242 complaints have been addressed. This indicates that airlines and authorities are taking steps to address passenger grievances and resolve issues.
- Airlines with the Most Complaints: According to the report, IndiGo received the highest number of complaints, with 61 complaints registered. It was followed by SpiceJet with 55 complaints and Air India with 54 complaints.
In summary, the DGCA’s air traffic report provides insights into the nature of passenger complaints in the Indian aviation sector in September 2023. Flight problems, baggage issues, and refunds were the primary sources of complaints, while fare-related disputes were relatively rare. The report also indicates that airlines have been actively working to address and resolve passenger complaints.
