What Happens If Your Flight Is Delayed?
Airlines are obligated to provide specific assistance depending on the duration of the delay:
• Delay of 2 to 4 Hours: Passengers must be offered tea, coffee, and light refreshments.
• Delay Over 4 Hours: Airlines are required to provide proper meals.
• Delay Over 6 Hours (especially overnight): Complimentary hotel accommodation along with airport transfers must be arranged.
What If Your Flight Is Cancelled?
Each airline has different policies regarding cancellations, especially related to the timing of the cancellation:
Air India
• Free cancellation if done within 24 hours and at least 7 days before departure.
• Cancellations after that window may attract charges.
Air India Express
• Offers a full refund if cancelled within 24 hours, provided the flight is at least 7 days away.
• Cancellation charges apply beyond this period.
IndiGo
• Allows full refunds for cancellations made within 24 hours of booking.
• Post-24-hour cancellations attract fees, although waivers may be granted in some cases.
What If the Flight Is Overbooked and You’re Denied Boarding?
In case of overbooking, passengers who are involuntarily denied boarding are entitled to:
• Compensation: Up to 400% of the basic fare, capped at ₹20,000 (within India).
• Alternate Options: A confirmed seat on the next available flight or a full refund.
• Assistance: Meals, accommodation, and ground transport if delays are involved.
Connecting Flights on a Single PNR
Passengers with connecting flights under one PNR enjoy some advantages:
• Baggage Transfer: Usually automatic, simplifying transit.
• Check-in & Rebooking: Seamless across connecting segments.
• Note: Visa, immigration, and security requirements still apply as per international and domestic travel norms.
What If You Refuse an Airline’s Alternate Flight?
If a passenger declines the alternate option offered by the airline:
• A full refund must be provided without additional charges.
• If the alternate flight isn’t available within one hour, compensation becomes applicable.
• During long waits or overnight delays, airlines must arrange meals and accommodation.
No Compensation in These Cases
Airlines are not obligated to pay compensation for delays or cancellations caused by:
• Bad weather or natural disasters
• Air traffic control restrictions
• Security threats
• Strikes unrelated to airline operations
Have a Complaint? Here’s Where to Go
If passengers face issues and want to raise complaints, they can:
• Use AirSewa: Visit the AirSewa website or download the AirSewa app (available on Android and iOS) to lodge grievances or track flight services.