New DGCA Rules: 48-Hour Window for Airline Ticket Changes Without Fees!

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has announced new regulations regarding airline ticket refunds, introducing a 48-hour window for cancellations and changes without fees. This update, effective from March 26, 2026, allows passengers to amend their bookings without incurring extra charges if done within the specified timeframe. Additionally, the DGCA has clarified guidelines on name corrections and refund timelines, ensuring a smoother process for travelers. Learn more about these significant changes and how they affect your travel plans.

By Narendra Chaudhary Feb 26, 2026, 17:38 IST

Major Update from DGCA on Airline Ticket Refunds

New Delhi: The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has made significant changes to its Civil Aviation Requirements (CAR) concerning airline ticket refunds. A new 48-hour 'look-in' period has been introduced, allowing travelers to cancel or modify their bookings without incurring additional fees.

According to the aviation authority, passengers can alter or cancel their tickets within 48 hours of making the reservation without facing extra charges.

However, if a passenger opts to switch to a different flight, they will need to pay any fare difference that may apply.

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

It's important to note that this benefit is exclusively available for tickets booked directly through the airline's official website.

The DGCA emphasized that after the 48-hour window has elapsed, standard cancellation fees will be enforced.

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

Additionally, the DGCA has established clear protocols regarding name corrections and refund timelines.

Airlines are prohibited from charging fees for correcting a passenger's name if the mistake is reported within 24 hours of booking, provided the ticket was purchased directly from the airline's site.

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

The DGCA has mandated that airlines complete the refund process within 14 working days in these scenarios.

Under the new guidelines, 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.

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