Cute Charge on Flights Image Credit source: Unsplash
The idea that looking ‘cute’ could incur a charge has taken social media by storm, with questions circulating about the so-called ‘Cute Charge.’ This charge was purportedly imposed on an IndiGo flight, prompting users to ask whether such fees were being levied based on one’s appearance or if it pertains to the airline’s aircraft being ‘cute.’ So, what exactly is this cute charge?
Understanding the ‘Cute Charge’
A viral post by a user named Shrayansh Singh has raised questions not only about the Cute Charge but also about additional fees such as the ‘Aviation Security Fee’ and ‘User Development Fee.’ The post articulately asserted a growing frustration regarding these charges.
Dear @IndiGo6E,
1. What is this ‘Cute Fee’? Do you charge users for being cute? Or do you charge because you believe that your airplanes are cute?
2. What is this ‘User Development Fee’? How do you develop me when I travel in your aeroplane?
3. What is this ‘Aviation
— Shrayansh Singh (@_shrayanshsingh) August 19, 2024
What is the Cute Charge Actually?
In response to the viral inquiry, IndiGo clarified that the ‘Cute Charge’ refers to fees associated with Common User Terminal Equipment (CUTE). CUTE includes essential equipment for airport operations such as metal detectors, escalators, and other critical tools utilized in passenger screening and boarding. The term ‘Cute’ in this context stands for Common User Terminal Equipment, dispelling any misconceptions regarding its implication.
Hi, we would like to inform you that the Cute charges refer to the Common User Terminal Equipment charge. It is basically the amount that is charged for the use of metal-detecting machines, escalators, and other equipment that are being used at the airport. (1/3)
— IndiGo (@IndiGo6E) August 19, 2024
The Controversy Surrounding Airport Charges
Following IndiGo’s clarification, further questions emerged regarding whether the costs associated with metal detectors and other equipment are not part of the airport’s security budget. As the debate continued, it highlighted a pressing concern over transparency in airfares.
Isn’t this a part of airport security? Aren’t the metal detectors a property of the CISF, which is a security organization of the govt. for the security of airports too?
The equipment being used at the airport, including the airport buildings themselves, are a public utility.
— Shrayansh Singh (@_shrayanshsingh) August 19, 2024
What Do Other Charges Mean?
The viral post also questioned additional charges such as the ‘Aviation Security Fee’ and ‘User Development Fee.’ The Aviation Security Fee is collected to cover security expenses managed by the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), while the User Development Fee is charged by airport operators to compensate for revenue shortfalls and ensure proper returns on their investments.
Typical Charges on Air Tickets
When purchasing air tickets in India, the base fare is typically low. Airlines primarily collect the base fare along with a fuel surcharge, after which various taxes and fees apply, raising the total cost of the ticket significantly. The following table summarizes the various charges that may apply to your air ticket:
| Charge Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Passenger Service Fee | A fee charged for passenger-related services. |
| Aviation Security Fee | Covers costs associated with airport security services. |
| Airport Development Fee | Costs associated with airport infrastructure improvements. |
| User Development Fee | A fee added to enhance the airport’s revenue. |
| Cute Fee | Charge associated with Common User Terminal Equipment. |
| Infant Fee | Charges for infants who travel on the flight. |
| Service Charge | Fixed fee for service handling on the ticket. |
| GST | Goods and Services Tax applicable on the ticket prices. |
| Seat Fee | Charge for selecting or reserving specific seats. |
| Regional Connectivity Fee | Fee charged under the Regional Connectivity Scheme. |
| Insurance Amount | Optional charge for air travel insurance. |
Creative Social Media Suggestions
The uproar over these charges has led to a wave of humorous suggestions from social media users, who have creatively proposed additional fees that airlines might introduce in the future. For example, one user noted that since passengers inhale air inside the airport, a ‘Breathing Charge’ could soon be implemented. Others jested about airlines possibly charging for the seats themselves, suggesting a ‘Chair Fee’ for prolonged waiting periods at the airport.
Soon enough, they’ll start delaying flights even more, make us sit at the airport for over two hours, and then charge us a “chair fee” for using the seats while we wait!
— Vipin Tiwari (@Vipintiwari952) August 19, 2024
Imagine in Future they will introduce charges like Ugly Charge, toilet Charge, waiting charge, airport electricity charge, etc 🤣🤣🤣🤣
— Anuj Prajapati (@anujprajapati11) August 19, 2024
