New Delhi: Air travel remains the preferred mode for long-distance journeys, valued for its time-saving advantage. However, flight delays and cancellations continue to pose challenges, especially during winter months when fog can disrupt schedules.
According to Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) regulations, passengers are entitled to a full refund if a flight is delayed by four hours or more. In such cases, passengers can either opt to take the next available flight or claim a complete refund of their ticket fare.
If the delay or cancellation is caused by technical issues, staff shortages, or airline fault, passengers receive a full refund without any deductions. Passengers also qualify for a refund if the flight timing changes and they choose not to travel.
Airlines have specific responsibilities depending on the length of the delay. For delays between two and three hours, passengers must be provided with meals or snacks. If a delay exceeds six hours, airlines are required to notify passengers at least 24 hours in advance.
For overnight delays causing passengers to be stranded, airlines must arrange hotel accommodation.
Refund amounts may vary by delay duration:
Less than one hour delay: refund up to ₹5,000 or the base fare
One to two hours delay: refund up to ₹7,500 or the base fare
More than two hours delay: refund up to ₹10,000 or the base fare
Exceptions apply during extraordinary circumstances such as bad weather, safety issues, or natural disasters, where compensation rules do not apply.
To claim a refund, passengers must request through the original booking platform, whether the airline’s website, travel agency, or third-party app. Refunds typically process within 7 to 10 working days to the payment account.
If airlines delay or refuse refunds, passengers can file complaints with the DGCA and consumer service portals.