Flight Delayed, Cancelled or Turned Around? Here's What Airlines Legally Owe You in India
Flight disruptions—be it delays, cancellations, or mid-air turnarounds—can cause major inconvenience to passengers. But did you know that under Indian aviation laws, you may be entitled to compensation or assistance depending on the nature of the disruption?
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), India’s civil aviation regulator, has outlined specific rights for passengers in such cases. Here’s what you need to know to ensure you don’t miss out on what’s legally owed to you.
✅ 1. If Your Flight Is Delayed
If your flight is delayed beyond two hours (depending on flight duration), airlines must provide meals and refreshments. If the delay exceeds 6 hours, airlines are also obligated to:
Inform you at least 24 hours in advance
Offer an alternate flight or a full refund
Provide hotel accommodation if the delay pushes the departure to the next day and involves an overnight stay
✅ 2. If Your Flight Is Cancelled
If the cancellation is not caused by weather or extraordinary events, and you were not informed at least 2 weeks in advance:
You are entitled to compensation up to ₹10,000, depending on flight length
You must be given an alternative flight or full refund, as per your choice
Meals and refreshments must be provided during wait times
Airlines must also assist with rebooking without additional cost
✅ 3. If Your Flight Is Diverted or Turned Around
If a flight is diverted or returns to the origin airport after takeoff:
The airline must provide meals, local transport, and accommodation (if required)
If you are deboarded, a replacement flight or full refund must be arranged
If the delay due to diversion exceeds the permissible hours, standard delay compensations apply
✅ 4. Denied Boarding Even With a Valid Ticket?
If you were denied boarding despite holding a valid ticket and arriving on time:
The airline must arrange an alternate flight within an hour
If that’s not possible, you are entitled to financial compensation
The DGCA mandates compensation up to ₹20,000 for denied boarding, depending on circumstances
✅ 5. How to Claim Compensation
Always retain boarding passes, receipts, and proof of delay or cancellation
File a formal complaint with the airline first
If unresolved, escalate the issue to DGCA’s AirSewa portal or consumer forums
✅ FAQ Section
Q1. What should I do first if my flight is delayed or cancelled?
A1. Check your airline’s app or counter for official updates. Then ask for assistance and request compensation or rebooking as per DGCA norms.
Q2. Do all delays qualify for compensation?
A2. No. Compensation applies only when delays are within the airline’s control (not due to weather, ATC restrictions, etc.).
Q3. Is hotel accommodation mandatory in case of long delays?
A3. Yes, if the delay causes an overnight wait and is the airline’s fault, hotel and transport arrangements must be provided.
Q4. How do I lodge a complaint against the airline?
A4. Start by writing to the airline's grievance redressal team. If unresolved, escalate to the DGCA via the AirSewa portal.
Q5. Can I get compensation if my flight was turned around mid-air?
A5. If the turnaround causes significant delay or inconvenience, standard compensation and rebooking rules apply, depending on the cause.
Published on: June 28, 2025
Uploaded by: Pankaj
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