Flight Cancellations: Several northern states, including Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh, have been witnessing dense fog for the past few days, leading to cancellation of multiple flight services. The cancellation or delays in flight services have led to inconveniences for thousands of passengers. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has issued clear guidelines to minimise inconvenience to the passengers. It stated that the airlines must provide basic facilities to the passengers, such as food and other means of transport, in case of delays or cancellation. The DGCA has advised the residents to follow the guidelines and plan their travel accordingly to avoid any inconveniences.
DGCA Rules For Flight Delays
The authority has stated that the airline is required to provide basic facilities to the waiting passengers if a flight is delayed. The airlines are required to provide complimentary meals if the flight is delayed by two to four hours. Apart from this, the passengers are entitled to be offered alternative flights or a refund if the delay exceeds six hours.
Facilities For Passengers
- A full refund will be given if the flight is cancelled
- Compensation of Rs 5,000- Rs 10,000 will be provided for failure to give timely notice
- Food and drinks will be provided for delayed flights
- Hotel and transportation facilities will be offered for longer delays
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However, if the delay is due to reasons beyond the airline's control, including weather, political unrest, and natural disaster, the airline is not required to provide a hotel or other facilities. The authority stated that if a flight is cancelled with a delay of one hour, passengers are entitled to compensation of Rs 5,000.
Additionally, the airline is required to provide alternative flights within one hour. Apart from this, passengers are entitled to the compensation of Rs 20,000 for the delays exceeding 24 hours.