In a major policy shift aimed at protecting air passengers’ rights, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has revised the Flight Delay Compensation framework effective from June 2025. These changes strengthen consumer protection by making airlines more accountable for delays and disruptions, aligning Indian aviation standards with global norms.
Here’s what you need to know about the updated DGCA rules and how they affect passengers and airlines.
What Prompted the Change in DGCA Rules?
Over the past decade, India’s aviation industry has seen a massive boom, but flight delays—caused by technical snags, poor scheduling, and weather—have left thousands of passengers stranded, often with no adequate recourse.
Previously, flight delay compensation was minimal, and enforcement was inconsistent. Complaints surged, leading to legal pressure and public demand for stronger consumer rights. The 2025 update by the DGCA reflects an effort to bring clarity, fairness, and enforceability into the compensation process.
Key Changes in Flight Delay Compensation Rules – 2025
1. Revised Compensation Thresholds Based on Delay Duration
Under the updated guidelines:
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Delay of 2 to 3 hours: Airlines must offer meals and refreshments.
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Delay of 3 to 5 hours: Passengers are entitled to a compensation of ₹2,000 or alternate travel options.
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Delay exceeding 5 hours: The compensation increases to ₹4,000, and passengers may also request a full refund or rescheduling at no extra cost.
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Delays exceeding 8 hours or overnight: Airlines are now mandated to provide hotel accommodation, airport transfers, and ₹5,000 in compensation.
These thresholds apply to all scheduled domestic flights and international flights departing from India.
2. Automatic Compensation Initiation
A major improvement is the introduction of automatic compensation. Passengers no longer need to file claims manually. Airlines must detect qualifying delays through internal systems and initiate compensation via SMS, email, or digital wallet within 48 hours.
3. Exceptions and Limitations
The DGCA has clarified scenarios where compensation is not mandatory:
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Delays due to weather-related issues, air traffic control (ATC) restrictions, or other events beyond the airline’s control (termed as “extraordinary circumstances”) are exempt.
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However, airlines must still provide basic care like refreshments and communication support even in these cases.
4. Improved Passenger Communication Protocol
Airlines are now required to inform passengers about any flight delays exceeding 30 minutes. The update mandates multiple channels of communication—SMS, email, app notifications—ensuring no passenger is left in the dark.
Failure to inform passengers on time can now result in fines imposed by DGCA, apart from mandatory flight delay compensation.
5. Increased Penalties for Non-Compliance
To enforce accountability, the DGCA has introduced stricter penalties. Airlines failing to process compensation, misinform passengers, or violate notification timelines can be fined up to ₹50 lakh per incident. Repeat violations will attract steeper fines and potential suspension of slots or routes.
How Does This Impact Airlines?
Airlines now have to strengthen backend systems to detect delays, automate compensations, and comply with stricter reporting. Operational discipline is no longer optional. While this may increase operational costs temporarily, the rule change pushes airlines to optimize efficiency and improve customer service—a win for long-term brand credibility.
Passenger Rights Under the New DGCA Rules
If you’re flying within India in 2025 or later, here’s what you need to remember:
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Always provide accurate contact details at booking.
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Check for messages from your airline in case of delays.
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You are entitled to flight delay compensation—don’t assume it’s waived automatically.
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Use the DGCA’s online grievance redressal portal if your airline fails to honor the rules.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1. Do these rules apply to all flights in India?
Yes, the updated rules apply to all scheduled domestic flights and international departures from Indian airports.
Q2. What if my flight was delayed due to bad weather?
In cases of weather-related delays, airlines are not required to provide monetary compensation but must still offer basic services like food and accommodation.
Q3. How do I know if I’m eligible for compensation?
Eligibility is based on the length of the delay and its cause. If the delay was avoidable and exceeds the set thresholds, you’re likely entitled. Airlines are now required to notify you automatically.
Q4. Can I claim compensation for a missed connecting flight due to delay?
Yes, if both flights are part of the same booking, the airline is liable for compensation and necessary arrangements for onward travel.
Q5. Where can I raise a complaint if the airline refuses compensation?
You can file a complaint through the DGCA’s AirSewa portal or consumer courts if the airline fails to comply.
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