India’s aviation regulator, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), has proposed new passenger-friendly rules that could allow air travellers to cancel or reschedule their flight within 48 hours of booking — and get a full refund.
The DGCA’s draft proposal aims to make flight cancellations and changes easier and cheaper for passengers, who are often charged steep fees for altering their travel plans.
Under the proposal, airlines will be required to offer a ‘look-in’ window of 48 hours after booking. During this period, passengers can cancel or modify their tickets without extra charges, except for any fare difference in the case of rescheduling.
However, the benefit will not apply to domestic flights scheduled to depart within five days or international flights departing within 15 days of booking. After the 48-hour window, normal cancellation and amendment fees will apply.
The proposal, part of the draft Civil Aviation Requirement (CAR) on ticket refunds, also includes other reforms intended to reduce the burden on air passengers.