Airline tickets may become more expensive: Transport Ministry explains why

Tengrinews.kz – Kazakhstan may introduce fully refundable airline tickets, according to a new consumer protection bill.

The Ministry of Transport has warned that if passengers are allowed to return tickets without incurring losses, it could lead to higher ticket prices.

According to Deputy Minister of Transport Talgat Lastaev, including the cost of fully refundable tickets in the fare could result in higher flight prices because some passengers, for various reasons, do not show up for their flights.

During the event, journalists also reminded that lawmakers are proposing to allow Kazakhstani citizens to return tickets if their travel plans change.

“This will be a logical consequence. If the ticket is fully refundable, these costs will be evenly distributed among other passengers on the flight. So, if someone doesn’t show up but receives a 100% refund, and the airline has no other source of income except for payment for services, this will be passed on to other passengers. Overall, this could lead to higher fares,” Lastaev said.