By Khushi Pal
Published Jan 20, 2024

Hindustan Times
In Focus

Photo Credits: Pexels

From flight delays to cancellation: Key passenger rights to know

Amid a surge in recent flight delays and cancellations, here are some key passenger rights under the Ministry of Civil Aviation that every passenger must know.

Flight delay

In case of 2 hours or more

The passenger must be offered free meals and refreshments. 

In case of 6 hours or more

The airline must provide an alternate flight to the passenger within six hours or a full refund.

More than 24 hours

If the delay is more than 24 hours or more than six hours for flights departing between 2000 hrs and 0300 hrs, the passengers should be provided with free accommodation.

Cancellation

The airline is expected to inform the passenger of the cancellation at least two weeks before the travel date and arrange an alternate flight or refund the passenger.

However, if the airline fails to arrange an alternate flight, passengers should receive a refund and compensation ranging from 5,000 to 10,000, depending on the flight time.

Flight diversion

If the flight is diverted to a different destination and the waiting time is over 2 hours, the airline should arrange to disembark at the nearest airport and provide refreshments. 

If the waiting time is less than two hours at the alternative airport, the passengers must be provided with refreshments.