India’s DGCA rolled out passenger-friendly flight ticket refund and cancellation rules today, March 26, 2026, introducing a 48-hour free cancellation window and faster refunds.
Key Benefits for Travelers
Passengers can cancel or amend bookings within 48 hours without extra fees, provided domestic flights are 7+ days away and international ones 15+ days. Name corrections are free within 24 hours for direct airline bookings.
Refund Timelines and Caps
Credit card refunds process in 7 days; cash at airline counters is immediate; agent/portal bookings complete in 14 working days, with airlines fully accountable. Cancellation fees cap at base fare + fuel surcharge, with all taxes refunded even on non-refundable tickets.
Medical and Transparency Rules
Medical emergencies for passengers or same-PNR family qualify for full refunds or credit shells with documentation. Airlines must clearly display refund amounts and charges at booking.
