Flight cancellations are frustrating for passengers—especially when they happen due to unpredictable situations like war or national emergencies. But the big question remains: Will you get a full refund without cancellation charges in such cases?
India recently witnessed several flight disruptions during Operation Sindoor, which led to the temporary closure of nine airports on government orders. As airlines scrambled to cancel flights, passengers were left wondering about their refund rights. Let’s take a look at what India’s aviation regulator, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), says about flight cancellations during emergency situations like war.
Yes, under DGCA guidelines, passengers are entitled to a full refund without any cancellation charges if the flight is cancelled due to war-like circumstances. This is because such cancellations typically occur due to government directives or security measures, which are beyond passengers’ control.
In many such cases, airlines themselves proactively cancel services for safety or operational reasons. When this happens, passengers should not be penalized, and the refund should be processed automatically.
Pro Tip: Even though rules exist, it’s always advisable to call the airline’s customer support or visit the official website to check the specific refund process and timeline in real time.
Here’s what you need to know about DGCA’s stance on cancellations:
If a flight is cancelled due to the airline's fault (technical issues, overbooking, etc.), passengers are entitled to a full refund or alternative flight options without any deduction.
In extraordinary situations like war, civil unrest, political instability, poor weather, natural disasters, or air traffic control restrictions—airlines are not obligated to pay compensation, since these fall under "force majeure" or situations beyond their control.
However, even in such cases, many airlines voluntarily issue refunds to maintain goodwill and customer trust.
DGCA has separate rules in place for flight delays:
If a flight is delayed for more than 2-3 hours, the airline must provide meals and refreshments to passengers waiting at the airport.
In case of a delay exceeding 24 hours, airlines are required to offer hotel accommodation and transport, depending on availability and the passenger's location.
Passengers may also reschedule their travel or opt for a refund, depending on the airline's policy.
Refunds are not guaranteed if cancellations happen due to reasons clearly mentioned in the airline's policy under the "beyond control" clause, and if the passenger voluntarily cancels the booking before the airline announces any changes.
Still, many airlines handle such cases on a case-by-case basis, and it’s always worth reaching out directly for clarity.
If your flight is cancelled due to war-like conditions or government-imposed restrictions, you are eligible for a full refund without cancellation charges, as per DGCA rules. Airlines are expected to comply, especially when the cancellation is not the passenger’s fault.
In all cases, the best course of action is to stay in constant touch with your airline, keep an eye on official announcements, and be aware of your passenger rights to ensure a smooth refund process.
