The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has released a significant draft notification outlining new reforms for ticket refunds and consumer protections, applicable to all air transport operators flying to and from India. The core proposal introduces a 48-hour free cancellation policy aimed at easing passenger concerns and promoting fair play.
Also read: Mumbai Airport Plans Six-Hour Runway Closure Nov 20
Under this provision, passengers can cancel tickets free of charge within 48 hours of booking. However, this policy will not apply to domestic flights departing within five days or international flights departing within fifteen days of booking. After the 48-hour window, standard charges will apply.
The draft also sets clear timelines for processing refunds: credit card bookings must be processed within 7 days of cancellation, while cash payments are required to be paid immediately at the airline’s office where the ticket was booked. Bookings made via travel agents will be processed within 21 working days.
The DGCA has introduced several consumer-oriented provisions for transparency, including:
- No fee for correcting name spellings if reported within 24 hours of booking.
- Cancellation charges will be capped and cannot exceed the basic fare plus fuel surcharge.
- Airlines are prohibited from levying additional processing fees for handling refunds.
- Passengers will be entitled to refunds or credit shells in case of medical emergencies.
- Refund policies and cancellation charges must be clearly displayed at the time of booking.
The draft is open for public comments and feedback until November 30, 2025.
