DGCA Plans Big Relief for Flyers: Cancel or Reschedule Flight Tickets for Free Within 48 Hours of Booking
How To Book Cheap Flights And Save Thousands On Airfare
Passengers in India could soon enjoy more flexibility while booking flights. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has proposed new rules that would allow travelers to cancel or modify their flight tickets within 48 hours of purchase without any additional charges.
The aviation regulator is revising its refund policy to make the process smoother and more transparent for passengers. According to the draft proposal, airlines will be required to offer a “look-in option” for 48 hours after booking. During this period, travelers can cancel or reschedule their tickets without paying extra fees—except for any difference in the new fare.
The DGCA has clarified that refunds for tickets booked through travel agents or online portals will be the responsibility of the airline, ensuring passengers don’t get caught between multiple intermediaries.
However, this facility will not apply to tickets for flights departing within five days (domestic) or 15 days (international) of booking when purchased directly from an airline’s website. After the 48-hour window, standard cancellation and modification charges will apply.
The draft guidelines also call for airlines to complete refunds within 21 working days, a move aimed at improving customer experience and accountability.
In another relief measure, the DGCA has proposed that minor name corrections on tickets—if reported within 24 hours of booking—should not attract any extra charges, provided the booking was made directly on the airline’s website.
For passengers forced to cancel travel due to medical emergencies, airlines may be asked to offer either a full refund or a credit shell for future use.
These proposals follow widespread complaints from passengers about slow refunds and hidden charges. The DGCA has invited public feedback on the draft rules until November 30, before finalizing the updated Civil Aviation Requirement (CAR).
