Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has urged the Central Government to intervene in the rising airfare costs affecting Haj pilgrims from the state. He highlighted the financial strain imposed by exorbitant ticket prices, particularly on those with limited means, and called for regulatory measures to ensure fair and affordable travel expenses.
The issue is most severe for pilgrims flying from Kozhikode International Airport, where ticket prices have surged to ₹1.6 lakh—almost double the ₹86,000 fares from Kochi and Kannur airports. The steep rates have been attributed to the airport’s tabletop runway, which restricts the use of larger, cost-effective aircraft, forcing airlines to operate smaller planes with higher per-passenger costs.
To ease the burden, authorities have relocated 516 pilgrims from Kozhikode to Kannur, where flights are more affordable. This move follows appeals from around 3,000 pilgrims seeking alternative departure points.
However, the Centre has maintained that airfares are set by airlines based on market dynamics and operational feasibility. In an affidavit submitted to the Kerala High Court, the government stated that it does not control ticket pricing, as fares fluctuate based on demand, competition, and other factors.
The Supreme Court also declined to intervene, asserting that airfare regulation is a policy issue beyond its scope. Despite this, the Kerala government remains steadfast in advocating for fair pricing to ensure that financial barriers do not hinder the spiritual journey of Haj pilgrims.
