Flight cancelled or delayed? Find out if you are eligible for compensation (2024)

Due to dense fog conditions in cities like Delhi and Chandigarh, there have been many abrupt flight cancellations earlier this week, and the condition will likely remain the same for some time. And because of abrupt flight cancellations, travel plans and onward journeys of numerous passengers heading for vacations or business meetings have been disrupted.

Many videos have been circulating on social media platforms, depicting passengers expressing frustration with ground staff after experiencing delays at several airports nationwide. Given the increased likelihood of weather-related disruptions, obtaining travel insurance is advisable, as airlines cannot be held responsible for compensating customers in the event of weather-related issues or other extraordinary circ*mstances referred to as 'Force Majeure.'

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With regard to this, Air India recently launched the ‘Fog Care’ initiative, which allowed affected passengers to reschedule or cancel their flights without incurring additional charges.

The Union Ministry of Civil Aviation has urged airlines and operators to ensure fairness to passengers who have been facing cancellations and delays due to fog and other operational issues.

During a meeting with senior officials, including representatives from airlines and operators, Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia emphasised the strict adherence to Civil Aviation Requirements (CAR) regarding flight cancellations, delays, and refund policies.

In December 2022, the government issued guidelines outlining compensation for air passengers affected by flight cancellations and delays. While general guidelines exist, specific policies may vary among airlines.

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In the case of cancellation, airlines are obligated to provide an alternate flight or compensation in addition to a full refund of air tickets. Passengers awaiting an alternate flight at the airport shall also receive meals and refreshments.

For flight delays, airlines must offer meals and refreshments, an alternate flight, a full ticket refund, or hotel accommodation (including transfers), depending on the total duration of the delay.

However, airlines are exempt from compensation obligations in cases where cancellations and delays result from force majeure events—extraordinary circ*mstances beyond the airline's control.

Typically, passengers are entitled to a full refund or a replacement flight if the delay exceeds six hours, with prior notification at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

However, fog-related delays are less likely to adhere to this timeframe. Additionally, if a flight scheduled between 8 PM and 3 AM is delayed for over six hours, airlines may, at their discretion, provide complimentary hotel accommodation, particularly in weather-related events.