Core Viewpoint - The China Air Transport Association has issued a draft for public consultation regarding the "Flight Seat Reservation Rules for Public Air Transport Enterprises," aiming to standardize seat reservation practices and enhance passenger rights in response to growing demand for personalized travel experiences [1][2]. Group 1: Overview of the New Rules - The new rules require that at least 70% of seats on domestic flights and 65% on international and regional flights be available for free selection by passengers [2]. - The draft aims to address discrepancies in seat selection services among airlines, ensuring a more uniform experience for travelers [1][2]. Group 2: Scope and Applicability - The rules apply to both domestic and international flights operated by public air transport enterprises within China, with foreign airlines encouraged to follow these guidelines [3]. Group 3: Seat Reservation Definitions - Free selectable seats are defined as those available for passengers to choose without additional charges [6]. - Reserved seats are those not open for selection due to safety, special passenger needs, or value-added services [8]. Group 4: General Principles - Safety is prioritized, with seat reservation and release practices needing to comply with safety regulations [18]. - The rules emphasize a passenger-centered approach, ensuring sufficient free seats and respecting diverse passenger needs [19]. Group 5: Seat Reservation Management - Airlines must establish a management system for seat reservations, detailing reasons, quantities, and rules for obtaining and releasing seats [5][21]. - For domestic flights, value-added reserved seats are limited to loyalty program members, and no paid seat selection is allowed [23]. Group 6: Release Rules - Domestic flights must release reserved seats for free selection no later than three hours before departure [27]. - For international flights, reserved seats should be released progressively starting 48 hours before departure, with specific rules for different seat categories [33]. Group 7: Information Disclosure - Airlines must clearly inform passengers about seat reservation options, including free and paid selections, and the rules governing these options [35]. - Seat maps must use clear icons to indicate different seat categories for both domestic and international flights [36][37].
关于航班“锁座”,中国航协将有明确标准