Airlines in India have implemented new rules allowing passengers greater flexibility with their bookings. Starting now, travelers can benefit from a “look-in option” within 48 hours of purchasing a ticket. This allows them to either cancel or amend their reservations without incurring additional charges, apart from the fare difference, provided the departure date is set for at least 7 days for domestic flights and 15 days for international flights.
Key Features of the New Airline Rules
- Passengers can cancel or amend flights within 48 hours of booking.
- No additional charges will be applied, other than fare differences.
- Changes apply only for flights departing at least 7 days (domestic) or 15 days (international) later.
- Name corrections can be made without charges within 24 hours of booking.
- Refunds must be processed within 14 working days.
Refund Policy Enhancements
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has mandated that airlines must ensure refunds are completed within a maximum of 14 days. This revision aims to streamline the refund process, which has been a significant grievance for many passengers.
Medical Emergencies and Refunds
In cases of medical emergencies, where a passenger or an immediate family member is hospitalized during travel, airlines can offer either a refund or a credit shell. For situations not involving emergencies, refunds will be based on certifications from aerospace medical specialists.
Addressing Passenger Complaints
The regulator has recognized that issues surrounding ticket refunds have become a substantial source of complaints. The DGCA has stated that despite discussions with airlines, there has been insufficient improvement in handling refunds.
Commitment to Passenger Rights
Officials emphasize the government’s commitment to maintaining a fair service environment and ensuring minimum benchmarks for refund policies. The updates to the rules are part of a broader effort to make airline operations more customer-friendly.
