The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), India’s aviation regulator, has proposed a new rule that would allow passengers more flexibility to cancel, reschedule, or get refunds for their flight tickets. According to the proposal, travellers will get a 48-hour “look-in” period after booking their flight. During this time, they can change their travel plans or even cancel their tickets without paying any penalty.

This new plan is still at the proposal stage and open for public feedback until November 30, 2025. The DGCA will review all suggestions and comments from passengers, airlines, and other stakeholders before deciding whether to officially implement the rule. The proposal aims to make the air travel experience fairer and more convenient for customers, while still considering the operational needs of airlines.

However, there are a few exceptions. The DGCA has said that this 48-hour flexibility will not apply to flights scheduled to depart very soon,  that is, domestic flights leaving within five days of booking and international flights departing within fifteen days. This is to ensure that airlines can still manage their operations effectively, especially during busy travel periods or for last-minute bookings.

Another important part of the proposal deals with refunds. The DGCA wants to make sure that passengers are not forced to accept refunds in the form of credit shells or wallet balances. Instead, they will have the right to choose a direct refund to their bank account or the original mode of payment.

For passengers who book tickets through travel agents or third-party platforms, the DGCA also plans to make it mandatory for agents to process refunds quickly. This will help avoid delays and confusion that passengers sometimes face when airlines and agents blame each other.

Overall, the DGCA’s new proposal is meant to give passengers more power and flexibility when managing their travel plans. The final decision will be made only after the feedback period ends on November 30, ensuring that both passengers and airlines have their say before any rule is officially adopted.