Flight disruptions can be a significant source of stress for any traveler, but being informed about your rights in case of a flight cancellation can help you secure the compensation you're entitled to. This guide breaks down the essential information regarding refunds and compensation for domestic flights within India, as outlined by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).
Know Your Rights: What Airlines Owe You
Understanding the airline's obligations is the first step toward a smoother resolution. In the event of a flight cancellation, it's crucial to stay calm and promptly gather information about the reason for the disruption. Be sure to hold onto all relevant documents, as these will be vital for any claims you make.
Airlines are required to inform passengers about flight cancellations. If they fail to notify you at least two weeks in advance, you may be eligible for compensation ranging from ₹5,000 to ₹10,000.
Compensation Breakdown: What You Can Expect
The compensation you're entitled to can vary based on the airline's policy and the specific circumstances surrounding the cancellation.
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Notification of Cancellation: If the airline informs you of the cancellation less than two weeks before and up to 24 hours before departure, you may be eligible for compensation if an alternative flight is not arranged.
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Alternative Flights: Airlines are obligated to offer an alternative flight or a full refund.
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Financial Compensation: Indian laws mandate financial compensation that can range between ₹5,000 and ₹20,000 for cancellations without adequate notice.
Delays and Your Entitlements
Flight delays can be just as disruptive as cancellations. Here's a quick look at what you're owed in case of a delay:
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Refreshments: For flights delayed by more than 2 hours, passengers are entitled to meals and refreshments.
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Alternative Options: If a delay exceeds a certain timeframe, airlines must offer an alternate flight or a full refund, depending on what you prefer.
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Overnight Delays: In the case of an overnight delay, the airline must provide accommodation and transportation.
"Extraordinary Circumstances" Explained
It's important to note that you may not be eligible for compensation if the cancellation or delay is due to "extraordinary circumstances" that are outside the airline's control. These situations can include extreme weather conditions or airport strikes. Even in such cases, airlines are still required to offer an alternative flight or a refund.
The Claims Process: A Step-by-Step Guide
Should you find yourself in a situation where you need to claim compensation, here’s what you should do:
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Keep All Documents: Retain your boarding pass, ticket, and any receipts for expenses incurred due to the disruption.
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Communicate with the Airline: Get written communication from the airline detailing the reason for the cancellation or delay.
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File a Complaint: All airlines in India have a grievance section on their websites where you can file a complaint.
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Escalate if Necessary: If the airline does not resolve your issue, you can escalate your complaint through the AirSewa portal.
Remember, you generally have a time limit to file your claim, so it's best to do so as soon as possible while the details are still fresh in your mind.
A Note on Connecting Flights
If a cancellation causes you to miss a connecting flight with a different airline, your chances of receiving a refund for the missed flight are low.
To avoid this, it's often beneficial to book connecting flights with the same airline. Additionally, check if your travel insurance policy covers missed connections due to delays or cancellations