48-hour free cancellation: DGCA modifies ticket refund rules, sets deadline for airlines
Times of India
by TOI BUSINESS DESKFebruary 26, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has updated its refund policies for airline tickets in India, introducing significant changes to make the process more passenger-friendly and transparent. Under the revised guidelines, travelers can now cancel or modify their bookings without additional charges within 48 hours of purchasing a ticket, provided certain conditions are met. Additionally, airlines are prohibited from imposing extra fees for correcting a passenger’s name if the error is reported within 24 hours of booking and the ticket was bought directly through the airline’s website or app.
The new rules also clarify the responsibilities of travel agents and online portals in cases of refunds. According to the DGCA, these intermediaries act as representatives of the airlines, meaning the onus for processing refunds lies with the airlines themselves. Airlines are required to complete the refund process within 14 working days. This change aims to address long-standing passenger complaints about delays in receiving refunds, particularly during periods of flight disruptions or cancellations.
The amended Civil Aviation Requirements (CAR) also include provisions for medical emergencies. Passengers facing such situations can now cancel their tickets without additional charges, ensuring they are not penalized for unforeseen circumstances. These changes were prompted by rising concerns over refund delays, which came to light during the IndiGo controversy in December 2025, when the civil aviation ministry had to intervene to ensure pending refunds were processed promptly.
These updates reflect India’s efforts to align with global standards of passenger rights and improve trust in the aviation sector. By simplifying the refund process and holding airlines accountable, the DGCA is addressing a key pain point for air travelers. This move not only benefits passengers but also sets a precedent for more transparent and consumer-centric policies in India’s growing airline industry.
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Originally published on Times of India on 2/26/2026