DGCA Introduces New Air Travel Rules: What Passengers Must Know
In a move aimed at strengthening passenger rights and enhancing flight safety, India’s aviation regulator, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), has introduced a series of new rules for air travel. These changes, implemented in November 2025, bring greater flexibility in ticket bookings, faster refunds, and stricter safety norms for airlines.
48-Hour Free Cancellation or Modification Window
Under the new guidelines, passengers are allowed to cancel or modify flight tickets within 48 hours of booking without facing heavy penalties. Airlines can deduct only a minimal service fee and are prohibited from imposing steep cancellation charges.
This provision benefits passengers who make booking errors or experience sudden changes in travel plans, helping them avoid financial loss.
Refunds Must Be Processed Within 21 Working Days
The DGCA has mandated that airlines must process ticket refunds within 21 working days, even if the booking was made through a travel agent. The responsibility for refunds lies entirely with the airline.
The refund amount must include all applicable charges such as the User Development Fee (UDF), Airport Development Fee (ADF), Passenger Service Fee (PSF), and other mandatory fees. This rule aims to eliminate delays and ensure transparency in refund processing.
Revised Crew Rest and Flight Duty Time Limit (FDTL) Rules
To improve flight safety, the DGCA has introduced revised Flight Duty Time Limit norms. These include increased rest periods for pilots and cabin crew, reduced night-time duty hours, and strict limits on weekly flying hours.
Crew members experiencing fatigue are not permitted to operate flights. While these changes have led to some flight rescheduling and cancellations, the DGCA states that the primary goal is enhanced passenger safety.
Mandatory Annual Fatigue Management Training
Another key update is the introduction of compulsory annual fatigue management training for all pilots and cabin crew. This training focuses on improving alertness, decision-making, and emergency response skills.
Key Benefits for Air Travelers
The new rules provide passengers with greater flexibility in ticket bookings, faster and more reliable rerefunds, improved transparency in airline charges, and enhanced flight safety standards. With better-rested and better-trained crew members, the DGCA aims to ensure a safer and more comfortable flying experience for all travelers.
Passengers are advised to stay informed about these updated regulations while booking air tickets and to exercise their rights under the new DGCA framework.
