DGCA Introduces New Ticket Refund Policies for Airlines

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has announced significant updates to airline ticket refund policies, including a 48-hour cancellation window that allows passengers to modify or cancel bookings without extra fees. Effective from March 26, 2026, these new regulations aim to enhance passenger rights and streamline the refund process. Key changes include guidelines for name corrections and mandatory timelines for refunds, ensuring a more consumer-friendly approach in the aviation sector. Discover how these updates will impact your travel plans and rights as a passenger.

By Narendra Chaudhary Feb 26, 2026, 17:36 IST

Revised Airline Ticket Refund Guidelines

New Delhi, Feb 26: The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has updated its Civil Aviation Requirements (CAR) concerning airline ticket refunds. A new 48-hour 'look-in' period has been established, enabling passengers to cancel or modify their bookings without incurring additional fees.

According to the aviation authority, travelers can make changes or cancel their tickets within 48 hours of booking without facing any extra charges.

Once this 48-hour window has elapsed, standard cancellation fees will be applicable.

If passengers opt to change their flight, they will be responsible for paying any fare difference that may arise.

This policy is applicable only if the departure date is at least seven days away for domestic flights and 15 days for international flights.

This benefit is exclusively available for tickets booked directly through the airline's official website.

The updated regulations were announced on February 24 and will take effect from March 26, 2026.

The DGCA has also provided specific guidelines regarding name corrections and refund timelines.

Airlines cannot impose fees for correcting a passenger's name if the correction is requested within 24 hours of booking, provided the ticket was purchased directly from the airline's website.

For tickets booked via travel agents or online platforms, the airlines will be responsible for processing refunds, as agents act on their behalf.

The DGCA mandates that airlines complete the refund process within 14 working days in these situations.

Refunds for credit card transactions must be processed within seven days, while cash payments made at the airline's office should be refunded immediately at that location.

Additionally, airlines are required to refund all statutory taxes and passenger-related charges in the event of cancellations or no-shows, even if the base fare is non-refundable.