DGCA announces free 48-hour ticket cancellation, refund in 14 days for air travelers

Under the new rules, passengers who book tickets directly through an airline’s official website will be allowed to cancel or modify their booking within 48 hours without paying any additional charges.

Post Published By: Sujata Biswal
Updated : 26 February 2026, 7:14 PM IST

New Delhi: In a major relief for flyers, India’s aviation regulator - the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) - has revised ticket cancellation and refund rules, making the process faster and more passenger-friendly. The new guidelines aim to reduce hefty cancellation charges and long refund delays that travelers often faced.

Free Cancellation or Changes Within 48 Hours

Under the new rules, passengers who book tickets directly through an airline’s official website will be allowed to cancel or modify their booking within 48 hours without paying any additional charges.

Additionally, minor spelling errors in a passenger’s name can now be corrected free of cost within 24 hours of booking.

Refund Must Be Processed Within 14 Working Days

One of the biggest changes is regarding refunds. Airlines are now required to process ticket refunds within 14 working days.

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Importantly, the responsibility for issuing refunds will lie directly with the airline — even if the ticket was booked through a travel agent or third-party website. This move is expected to reduce delays and confusion for passengers.

Decision Follows Indigo Disruption

The revised guidelines come after widespread complaints during last year’s operational disruptions involving IndiGo, when many flights were cancelled and passengers struggled to get timely refunds. The DGCA has now tightened norms to ensure better accountability.

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Key Points Passengers Should Know

  • After 48 hours: Fare differences and airline charges will apply.
  • Name correction: Free within 24 hours for minor spelling errors.
  • Agent bookings: Refund must still be processed within 14 working days.
  • Medical emergencies: Special provisions allow relief in case of illness-related cancellations.
  • These changes are expected to make air travel more transparent, flexible, and passenger-friendly.

 

Location : 
  • New Delhi

Published : 
  • 26 February 2026, 7:14 PM IST

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