Cancel Flights Without Fee: DGCA Offers Relief to Flyers

India’s aviation regulator, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), has revised air ticket refund rules to make the process clearer and more consumer friendly. The updated Civil Aviation Requirements were issued on February 24. These changes impact cancellations, modifications and refund procedures.

A key update is the introduction of a 48-hour look in option after booking. Under this rule, passengers can cancel or modify tickets without extra charges within two days. However, specific eligibility conditions must be met.

The facility applies only to tickets booked directly through an airline’s website. It does not cover flights scheduled to depart shortly after booking. For domestic travel, the departure must be at least seven days away, and for international travel, at least 15 days away.

Once the 48-hour window closes, standard cancellation charges will apply. This provision is aimed at giving travellers a short review period. It offers flexibility for those who may need to correct or reconsider plans soon after booking.

Another significant change concerns name corrections. Airlines cannot charge additional fees for correcting passenger names if the error is reported within 24 hours of booking through the airline’s website. This move seeks to prevent penalties for minor spelling mistakes.

The revised norms also clarify refund timelines. Even if tickets are booked through travel agents or online portals, airlines are responsible for processing refunds. All refunds must be completed within 14 working days.

Airlines must clearly display cancellation charges at the time of booking. They are also required to refund all statutory taxes and fees. These steps are intended to increase transparency and reduce confusion for passengers.

The DGCA introduced these changes following widespread complaints about delayed refunds. Many travellers faced difficulties during operational disruptions at major carriers last year. The new rules aim to restore trust and improve passenger rights.