India’s aviation regulator Directorate General of Civil Aviation has introduced new Civil Aviation Requirements (CAR) effective from March 26, 2026. These rules apply to both domestic and international airlines operating in India and aim to enhance transparency, flexibility, and passenger convenience during flight bookings and cancellations.
One of the key features is the introduction of a 48-hour “look-in” window. Passengers can cancel or modify their tickets without extra charges within this period, provided the booking meets certain conditions. For domestic flights, the departure must be at least seven days away, and for international flights, at least fifteen days away. This gives travellers time to correct or reconsider their plans without financial loss.
Another important rule is the free correction of minor name errors. If a passenger notices a spelling mistake in the ticket within 24 hours of booking, airlines cannot charge any fee for correcting it. This rule applies only to tickets booked directly through airline platforms, ensuring a smoother booking experience.
The new guidelines also bring clarity to refund practices. Airlines can offer refunds in the form of a credit shell, but this is no longer mandatory. Passengers now have the option to choose whether they want the refund in a credit shell or through their original payment method, giving them more control over their money.
For foreign airlines operating in India, specific refund timelines have been defined. Credit card refunds must be processed within seven days, while cash refunds should be issued immediately. For bookings made through travel agents, airlines are required to complete refunds within 14 working days, ensuring accountability.
Additionally, airlines must clearly display cancellation charges at the time of booking. This ensures passengers are fully aware of whether their ticket is refundable and what fees may apply. Overall, these rules aim to create a more transparent and passenger-friendly aviation system in India.
