How long does a flight delay require a full refund, and what is the process?

Airlines have certain responsibilities in case of a flight delay. If the flight is delayed by 2 to 3 hours, passengers should be provided with food or snacks by the airline.

These days, people prefer flights over buses or trains for travel. This not only saves time but also provides the easiest way to cover long distances. However, flights are sometimes unexpectedly cancelled or delayed for hours, causing significant inconvenience to passengers. This problem is exacerbated during the winter season, when fog disrupts flights. Therefore, if you are planning to travel by flight, it's important to know how long a flight delay requires a full refund and the process.

When is a full refund available?

According to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation, if a flight is delayed by four hours or more, passengers have two options from the airline. In the first option, passengers can either choose to take the next flight or receive a full refund. If the airline cancels a flight due to a technical problem, staff shortage, or their own fault, passengers are refunded the full ticket amount without any deductions. If the flight's schedule is changed and the passenger does not wish to travel, they can also receive a full refund.

What are the airline's responsibilities?

Certain responsibilities of airlines have also been established in the event of a flight delay. If the flight is delayed by 2 to 3 hours, passengers must be provided with food or snacks. If the flight is delayed by more than 6 hours, passengers must be informed at least 24 hours in advance. If the flight is at night and passengers are stranded due to a long delay, the airline must arrange hotel accommodation for them.

How much refund can be received?

• For a delay of less than one hour, a refund of ₹5,000 or the ticket's base fare can be received.
• For a delay of one to two hours, a refund of ₹7,500 or the ticket's base fare can be received.
• For a delay of more than two hours, a refund of ₹10,000 or the ticket's base fare can be received.

However, in exceptional circumstances such as bad weather, security reasons, or a disaster, the airline does not provide compensation.

What is the refund process?

In case of a flight delay or cancellation, the passenger must request a refund through the same medium through which the ticket was booked. To do this, visit the airline's website and select the refund option in the Manage Booking section. Furthermore, if the ticket was booked through a travel agency or third-party app, cancellation must be done from there. Refunds are typically credited to the account from which the payment was made within 7 to 10 working days. However, if the airline refuses to refund or requires more time, you can file a complaint with the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and the service portal.