Air passengers tricked into paying premium seat fees despite free options, says Consumer Commission; airline ordered to compensate

An airline has been ordered to pay compensation for misleading passengers. The Maharashtra State Commission ruled the airline used a 'dark pattern' by not disclosing free seat availability. Passengers were made to pay extra for pre-booking seats. This practice violated consumer rights and constituted an unfair trade practice. The commission upheld a district commission's order for refund and compensation.