Summary of this article
DGCA has recently proposed revisions to the existing refund norms.
Air passengers in India will have greater flexibility in cancelling and amending details.
Initiated to place a greater responsibility on airlines.
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has recently proposed a significant revision to the existing refund norms. Air passengers in India may soon have greater flexibility in cancelling and amending flight tickets.
The draft is designed to enhance passenger convenience and accountability within the aviation industry. This draft suggests that travellers should be allowed to cancel or modify their tickets without any additional charges within 48 hours of booking.
What Are The Amendments
The amendments suggested to the Civil Aviation Requirement (CAR) on ticket refunds also place a greater responsibility on airlines when bookings are made through third-party travel agents or online portals. According to the DGCA, the "onus of refund shall lie with the airlines as the agents are their appointed representatives". Airlines have been further directed to process the refunds within 21 working days of the cancellation request.
Cancellation Within 48 Hours
The DGCA has proposed a "Look-in Option" that allows passengers to make changes and cancellations within 48 hours of booking without any penalties, except for the applicable fare difference in case of a revised flight. This step was taken to address frequent passenger grievances. Though to make it fair, this facility will not apply to flights scheduled to depart within 5 days for domestic travel or 15 days in case of international travel. Once the 48 hours have passed, the regular cancellation or amendment fees will apply.
Name Change Within 24 Hours
As another passenger-friendly measure, the DGCA has proposed that airlines must not charge extra if the passenger had mistakenly mentioned a wrong name and wants to correct it within 24 hours of booking through the official website of the airlines. This aims to eliminate unnecessary penalties for minor mistakes.
Refund Or Credit Pass
In addition, the draft guidelines suggest that airlines either refund the ticket amount or issue a credit shell in cases where passengers are forced to cancel due to medical emergencies. This facility was introduced to offer greater flexibility and compassion for people facing exceptional circumstances.
DGCA proposed these changes after noticing recurring issues faced by air travellers regarding refunds and cancellations, which have been particularly evident during the time of the pandemic. By revising CAR, the regulator aims to establish transparency, timely refunds, and strengthen passenger rights.
DGCA has also opened a space for feedback and comments on this proposed draft from airlines, travel agents, and passengers. These suggestions and responses can be submitted by November 30, 2025.
