DGCA Plans 48-Hour Window For Passengers To Rethink, Cancel, Or Change Flight Bookings

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has proposed new passenger-friendly rules that would allow airline travellers to cancel, refund, or reschedule their flight tickets within 48 hours of booking, India Today reported.

The aviation regulator has invited public feedback on the draft regulations until 30 November before finalising the amendments.

The DGCA said the central feature of the proposal is a 48-hour “Look-in Option,” enabling flyers to revisit their booking decisions within two days of purchase without facing heavy penalties.

The proposal aims to strengthen consumer rights while maintaining operational balance for airlines.

“The proposal is not meant for domestic flights whose departure is scheduled in less than five days and international flights in less than 15 days,” the DGCA clarified.

The regulator said these limitations are necessary to accommodate airlines’ scheduling and operational needs, especially for short-notice bookings.

The draft regulation seeks amendments to Civil Aviation Requirement (CAR) Section 3, which governs the norms for ticket rescheduling, cancellations, and refunds. It also includes new guidelines to ensure timely reimbursements for passengers who book through travel agents.

Under the proposed rules, passengers will no longer be compelled to accept credit shells or wallet balances in lieu of refunds. Instead, they will have the right to receive direct refunds within stipulated timelines.

DGCA officials said the proposals were designed to “provide greater flexibility and control to passengers soon after ticket purchase,” while creating a fair framework for airlines.

Once the feedback window closes, the regulator will review inputs from the public and industry stakeholders before implementing the final version.

The proposed measures, if approved, are expected to make air travel more transparent and passenger-centric in India’s rapidly expanding aviation sector.

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