In the wake of the Pahalgam terrorist attack that claimed 28 lives on Tuesday, airfare from Srinagar to key Indian metros has soared dramatically, with some tickets exceeding Rs 30,000 for travel over the next two days, starting today. The spike, which comes despite added flights and public assurances from airlines, has triggered widespread anger online and among stranded passengers.
Popular booking platforms show that the only remaining flight from Srinagar to New Delhi and Mumbai for Wednesday is priced over Rs 20,000, while Thursday’s fare crosses Rs 18,000. Similarly, one-way tickets from Srinagar to Kolkata are listed at upwards of Rs 30,000, inclusive of taxes and other fees.

 

Passengers and social media users have accused airlines such as Air India Express, SpiceJet, and IndiGo of inflating prices for profit in a time of crisis. The narrative of ‘making the most out of people in crisis’ strengthens, highlighting that fares drop to normal levels from Friday onwards to as much as below Rs 8000 - Rs 13000/- range. This stark contrast in the price chart has irked widespread resentment among travellers and fellow countrymen.

 

This controversy comes even as airlines announced measures to aid affected passengers. Air India and IndiGo operated four additional flights from Srinagar to Delhi and Mumbai, offering waivers on cancellation and rescheduling for travel until 30 April.

“Given the prevailing situation, Air India will operate two additional flights from Srinagar to Delhi and Mumbai,” the airline posted on X (formerly Twitter). IndiGo, which flies 20 times daily from Srinagar, stated it would also run extra flights and waive change fees. Air India Express echoed the support, providing flexibility in travel changes with no fare difference charges.

Users on X platform have come with varied set of requests and complaints, while some stated the airlines as 'vultures', others requested refund of all flight fares till 30th April, on the behest of a national issue.
The sharp contradiction between supportive policies and skyrocketing fares has drawn calls for regulatory intervention. Consumer rights advocates argue for transparent pricing mechanisms in emergencies and greater oversight by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).