Full flight ticket refunds within 48 hours? What the new DGCA rules say

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has implemented new Civil Aviation Requirements (CAR) aimed at enhancing passenger rights. Effective from February 24, the revised regulations introduce a 'Look-in option' which allows travelers to review their flight bookings post-purchase. This initiative is part of a broader effort to improve transparency and customer satisfaction in the aviation sector. Notably, the guidelines also stipulate that airlines must provide full ticket refunds within 48 hours for cancellations made by passengers. This move is expected to simplify the refund process and provide clarity to consumers, addressing long-standing concerns regarding delayed reimbursements. The DGCA's updated framework reflects a growing recognition of the need for consumer protection in the rapidly evolving air travel industry, which has seen significant changes in response to passenger feedback and the ongoing impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. By empowering travelers with more options and timely refunds, the DGCA aims to foster greater trust and reliability in air travel in India.