- 24 Aug, 2024
The Internet has been sparked by a screenshot of a ticket by an advocate and frequent IndiGo flier that highlighted the airline’s introduction of a new charge called “Cute Fee.” Surprisingly, the concerned person was charged an extra RS 50 as a ‘Cute Fee.’ This led many experts, travelers, and officials to raise concerns over grounds of such charges, transparency, etc.
The concerned advocate, Shrayansh Singh, asked the IndoGo:
“What is this ‘Cute Fee’? Do you charge users for being cute? Or do you charge because you believe that your airplanes are cute?” He further added, “What is this ‘User Development Fee’? How do you develop me when I travel in your airplane? What is this ‘Aviation Security Fee’? Am I not paying taxes to the Government to ensure my safety when I Travel?”
Explanation on “Cute Fee” by IndiGo.
To answer the concern raised by an individual on “Cute Fee,” IndiGo said:
“Hi, we would like to inform you that the Cute charges refer to the Common User Terminal Equipment charge. It is basically the amount that is charged for the use of metal-detecting machines, escalators, and other equipment that are being used at the airport.”
This implies that IndiGo imposed the “Cute Fee” to cover the cost of airport infrastructure, including escalators, metal detectors, etc., that ensure a swift and perfect on-ground and onboard experience.
Remarking on the explanation of ‘Cute Fee.”
Nevertheless, the advocate, Singh, said that he was not satisfied with the response. He further argued that these charges are already included in the taxes by us or citizens, as the airport infrastructure is a public utility.
“Isn’t this a part of airport security? Aren’t the metal detectors a property of CISF, which is the security organization of the Government for the security of airports too?
Point of Views.
The explanation of ‘Cute Fee’ by IndiGo or the exchange between them surged a debate on the Internet, where a diverse number of users shared their views.
One of them commented, “Wondering what next, usage charges for fuel nozzles at petrol pumps. Oh Sorry! I should not be giving ideas to them like this.”
Whereas others came in support of the airline, saying, “Airlines aren’t to blame here. The Cute Fee, User Development fare, and Passenger Service Fare are all imposed by the Airport Authority to maintain the airports. Airlines are just collecting these fees on their behalf.”
Ongoing Situation.
The airline was quick to respond to the concerned person asking about the necessity of a “Cute Fee” on the overall ticket. However, the official's statement on such a fee gained a mix of support and criticism from both sides (the airline and the people).
The ‘Cute Fee’ debate has led many people to share their thoughts and views. Some support such charges, while others contradict them, calling them “unusual.” However, no further statement is made by the officials.
The need of the hour is to bring transparency and fairness in the case of charges imposed on overall flight tickets for the best aviation experience.
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