Tired Of Airline Refund Hassles? DGCA’s 48-Hour Rule Could Be the Fix You Need

India’s aviation regulator, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), has proposed major reforms to air ticket refund rules aimed at making the process more transparent, efficient and passenger-friendly. The new Civil Aviation Requirement (CAR), once implemented, is expected to streamline refunds, improve accountability among airlines and restore confidence among travellers who have long faced issues with delays, hidden charges and unclear cancellation policies.Here are three major highlights from the proposed overhaul.1. 48-Hour Free Cancellation Or Amendment Window Passengers may soon benefit from a 48-hour “look-in” period after booking their flight, during which they can cancel or modify tickets without incurring any additional charges.

The only exception will be when a traveller changes for a different flight with a higher fare. However, this flexible policy will not apply to domestic bookings made within five days of departure or international bookings made within 15 days of departure. After the 48-hour window, regular airline cancellation fees will apply.2. Faster Refunds and No Hidden Deductions:Under the DGCA’s draft rules, airlines will be required to process refunds within 21 working days, addressing the long-standing issue of delays faced by passengers. Additionally, carriers must return statutory taxes and airport fees even if a passenger cancels late or is marked as a no-show. The DGCA has also made it clear that airlines cannot impose charges for minor name corrections reported within 24 hours of booking through their official website.3. Fairer Rules for Agents and Medical CancellationsUnder the proposed changes, airlines will bear direct responsibility for processing refunds on tickets booked through travel agents, ensuring greater accountability and quicker resolution. In cases of cancellations due to medical emergencies, airlines may offer a credit shell only with the passenger’s consent - it cannot be applied automatically.