IndiGo's gender-specific seating option, introduced in May 2024, has made significant strides in enhancing the comfort and security of female travelers. This initiative, part of a pilot project, allows women to choose seats next to other female passengers during the web check-in process. It reflects the airline’s commitment to addressing safety concerns and improving the overall travel experience for women.
Since its launch, the service has seen a remarkable uptake. In August 2024 alone, there was a 60-70% increase in the number of women opting for this seating arrangement compared to July. The system works by highlighting seats booked by female passengers in pink during web check-in, which helps women easily identify and select seats next to other female travelers. This feature is available exclusively to those who identify as female during booking, ensuring that this information is protected from male passengers.
The introduction of this feature comes in response to increasing concerns about in-flight harassment and discomfort. Many women have expressed a preference for seating arrangements that provide a greater sense of security and peace of mind during flights. The airline's initiative aims to create a more comfortable and secure environment for female passengers, reinforcing IndiGo’s dedication to enhancing the travel experience.
An IndiGo spokesperson highlighted that this initiative aligns with the airline’s #GirlPower ethos and is part of their broader efforts to cater to the needs of female travelers. The airline’s commitment to this project is evident in its proactive approach to addressing feedback and making travel safer and more enjoyable for women.
The success of this pilot project will be evaluated by IndiGo by the end of the second quarter of the financial year. The airline plans to use the feedback and data collected during this period to make informed decisions about the future of the feature. If successful, the seating option could become a permanent offering, further solidifying IndiGo’s reputation for prioritizing passenger comfort and safety.
