New DGCA Rules Faster Ticket Refunds and 48 Hour Free Changes
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has issued new guidelines to make flight cancellations and refunds easier for passengers. These updated rules follow a rise in traveler complaints and aim to protect the interests of the flying public.
Under the new regulations, airlines are prohibited from charging extra fees to process a refund.
Faster Refund Timelines for Passengers
The DGCA has set clear deadlines for how quickly airlines must return your money after a cancellation:
- Credit Card Payments: Airlines must refund the amount to the cardholder’s account within seven days.
- Cash Transactions: Refunds must be made immediately by the airline office where the ticket was purchased.
- Travel Agents and Portals: If you booked through an agent or website, the airline is responsible for ensuring the refund is completed within 14 working days. The DGCA clarified that the responsibility lies with the airline, as agents are their representatives.
Transparent Cancellation Charges
Airlines must now be completely transparent about their fees. The DGCA states that:
- Refund amounts must be clearly and simply indicated.
- Cancellation charges must be shown prominently at the time of booking.
- Price Limit: Under no circumstances can a cancellation fee exceed the total of the basic fare plus the fuel surcharge.
The 48 Hour “Look In” Option
In a major update, the DGCA has introduced a “Look in option” that allows passengers to change their minds shortly after booking.
- Free Changes or Cancellations: Passengers can cancel or amend a ticket within 48 hours of booking without paying any additional fees.
- Fare Difference: While there is no penalty fee during this window, you must still pay the difference if the new flight fare is higher.
- Time Constraints: This 48 hour free window only applies if the flight is booked well in advance. It is available for domestic flights departing in 7 days or more, and international flights departing in 15 days or more.
- Expiry: Once the initial 48 hour window passes, standard cancellation and amendment fees will apply.
Name Corrections and International Carriers
The new rules also address smaller errors and international travel:
- Free Name Corrections: Airlines cannot charge a fee to fix a spelling mistake in a passenger’s name, provided the error is reported within 24 hours of booking.
- Foreign Airlines: International carriers operating to or from India will process refunds based on the regulations of their home country.
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