The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has rolled out new passenger-friendly guidelines that allow free ticket cancellation within 48 hours of booking and free error correction within 24 hours.
The revised norms come in response to increasing complaints about high cancellation charges and delayed refunds. Under the new framework, passengers who spot booking mistakes within 24 hours will not be charged any correction fee by airlines.
Airlines have been directed to offer a 48-hour “look-in option,” during which passengers can cancel or modify tickets without incurring cancellation penalties. If a ticket is modified, however, the fare difference based on the new booking will apply.
This benefit is applicable to tickets booked directly through airline websites. However, the facility will not apply to domestic flights scheduled within seven days of booking or international flights departing within 15 days.
The DGCA has also mandated that airlines complete the refund process within 14 working days. Even when tickets are purchased through travel agents or online portals, airlines will remain responsible for ensuring timely refunds.
The updated guidelines also address medical emergency cancellations. If a passenger or a family member listed under the same PNR is hospitalized during the travel period, they will be eligible for a refund upon submitting valid medical documents.
The reforms are being widely welcomed as a strong step toward improving transparency, accountability, and passenger convenience in India’s rapidly growing aviation sector.
