New Delhi: In a major relief to air passengers, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has announced a new rule allowing cancellation or rescheduling of airline tickets up to 48 hours before departure without additional charges. The new regulation will come into effect from March 26.
At present, this facility — commonly known as the “look-in option” — is available only up to 24 hours before departure. The revised rule extends this window, offering greater flexibility to travellers.
However, the DGCA clarified that airlines are not mandated to provide this facility for all ticket categories. For domestic flights, tickets booked within seven days of travel and for international flights booked within 15 days may not be eligible for free cancellation or rebooking. If a passenger changes the ticket and the new fare is higher, the fare difference will be applicable.
The refund timeline has also been revised. Refunds, which were earlier processed within 30 days when booked through agents or portals, will now have to be completed within 14 days. Airlines will be responsible for ensuring timely refunds.
The concession is applicable primarily to tickets booked directly through airline websites.