Delhi Airport Increases User Development Fee; International Travel to Become Costlier!

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): Starting April 16, international passengers flying out of Delhi Airport will have to pay a significantly higher User Development Fee (UDF). The increase, which does not apply to domestic passengers, will see the UDF for international economy class passengers rise by 400%.

New UDF Rates: The UDF for international economy class passengers will increase from ₹150 to ₹650. This substantial hike will add to the financial burden of travelers flying internationally from Delhi Airport. Domestic passengers, however, have been spared from this increase. They will continue to pay a UDF of ₹129, as before.

Impact on Travel Costs: The increased UDF will result in higher ticket costs for international passengers. This additional expense may affect travel plans, particularly in the current scenario of rising air fares. Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL) has justified the hike, stating that it is necessary to ensure the smooth maintenance and development of the airport. The increased revenue will be utilized to improve passenger facilities and infrastructure.

What Passengers Should Do

To minimize the impact of the increased UDF, passengers are advised to:

Check for additional charges before booking tickets

Include UDF in their travel budget

Book tickets in advance to reduce the financial burden

By being aware of the new UDF rates and taking necessary precautions, passengers can better plan their travel expenses