Flight Delayed? Here’s Everything You Need to Know About Compensation and Rebooking

Flight Delayed? Everything You Need to Know About Compensation, Rebooking, and More

Flight delays can turn a well-planned trip into a frustrating experience. Whether it's bad weather, heavy traffic during the holidays, or even a technical issue, delays are unfortunately common. In fact, as per FlightAware, an average of 30,000 flights are delayed daily worldwide in 2023, while the DGCA (Directorate General of Civil Aviation) reported that 5 lakh passengers in India were affected by domestic flight delays as of January 2024.

But don’t worry—knowing your rights and entitlements can help you turn a frustrating situation into a manageable one. Here’s a complete guide on flight delay compensation, rebooking, and more.

Your Rights Under the DGCA: What to Expect When Your Flight Is Delayed

Will the Airlines Book Me Another Flight?

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Yes, they will. DGCA regulations state that if your domestic flight is delayed by more than six hours, the airline is required to offer you either an alternative flight or a full refund on your ticket. This means you don't need to worry about rebooking a new flight yourself, as most airlines will handle this process for you.

For example, IndiGo Airlines offers rebooking or a full refund if your flight is delayed by more than two hours or if it is preponed by more than one hour. Rebooking is done without any additional charges, provided the seats are available.

Will I Have to Wait at the Airport for Hours?

Not necessarily. The DGCA has clearly defined rules for such cases:

• If your flight has a block time (total flight time) of 2 hours 30 minutes or more, and it’s delayed by two hours or more, you are entitled to free lounge access and refreshments.
• For flights with a block time of 2 hours 30 minutes to 5 hours, and a delay of over three hours, similar benefits apply.

If the delay extends beyond 24 hours or if the delay happens between 8 PM and 3 AM and is longer than 6 hours, airlines must offer free hotel accommodation. Remember, this accommodation will be chosen by the airline and is not subject to your preferences.

To avail of these benefits, visit the airline's check-in counter at the airport.

What Happens if My Connecting Flight Is Delayed?

The good news is that if both legs of your journey were booked with the same carrier, the airline is required to book you on the next available flight without any additional cost. This ensures that your onward journey is uninterrupted.

However, if your connecting flight is booked with another airline, you will need to rebook it yourself, as the original airline is not responsible for these cases. Be sure to check the specific rules for your connecting flight.

Can I Cancel My Flight and Get a Refund?

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Yes, but only in certain circumstances. You are entitled to a full refund if:

• The airline cancels your flight, or
• The airline is unable to provide you with an alternative flight during a 6-hour delay.

However, if you choose to cancel your flight and book with another airline, you will not be eligible for a refund.

When Will I Get My Refund?

The refund process is initiated by the airlines once the flight is officially canceled. According to DGCA rules, the refund should be processed within seven business days. It's always a good idea to check with the airline regarding their refund timelines.

How to File Complaints About Delays

If your airline does not fulfill its obligations during delays, you can raise a complaint in several ways:

• At the Airport: Visit the airline’s help desk located in the arrival and departure areas.
• Online: File your complaint through the AirSewa portal.
• Escalation: If the issue is not resolved, you can escalate it by making a formal complaint with the DGCA or the Ministry of Civil Aviation.

Are There Any Exceptions?

Yes, there are exceptions. Force majeure situations, such as extraordinary weather conditions or other circumstances beyond the airline’s control, exempt the airline from having to provide compensation or rebooking services. The Passenger Charter by the Ministry of Civil Aviation clearly states these exclusions, so it's important to stay updated on such regulations.

Bonus Tips: Staying Informed and Prepared

1. Download Airline Apps: Most airlines provide real-time updates through their mobile apps. Keep an eye on your flight’s status to stay informed about any changes.
2. Check Compensation Policies: Every airline has its own compensation policy. Whether it’s rebooking, refunds, or lounge access, knowing the policies ahead of time can save you the trouble of figuring things out when delays happen.
3. Stay Calm: Flight delays are frustrating, but getting angry won’t help. Be polite when dealing with airline staff—they’re more likely to offer assistance if you maintain a positive attitude.

Conclusion

Flight delays are an unavoidable part of air travel, but they don’t have to ruin your trip. Understanding your rights as a passenger, knowing the airline's responsibilities, and having a backup plan can help you navigate these situations smoothly. Whether it's getting a refund, rebooking, or even securing lounge access and hotel stays, being informed is your best defense against the frustration of flight delays.

Stay calm, stay informed, and enjoy your journey once it finally takes off!