8 Flight Delay Compensation Rules in India You Should Know

Flight delays are a fact of modern travel, and knowing a few rules can save you time, money, and stress. India’s aviation regulator, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), sets out protections that affect refunds, rebooking, accommodation and more. This guide pulls together the main rules travellers ask about most often—what to expect at the airport, what airlines must provide, and the practical steps you should take when a flight is delayed or cancelled. We rely on reported DGCA guidance and reputable Indian sources to keep things accurate and useful. Take a calm, organised approach: collect documents, ask clearly for your options, and keep records of all airline communications. You don’t need to be a legal expert to exercise your rights. This post explains eight key rules and gives hands-on tips for claiming refunds or help. If you travel with family or carry a tiffin for the journey, these rules help you plan for delays without losing your cool. Read each numbered rule, use the short checklist at the end, and you’ll be better prepared the next time your flight doesn’t leave on time.

1. Know the 6-hour rule and your refund or rebooking choices

One of the clearest thresholds reported is a six-hour delay. If your flight is delayed for six hours or more, many passengers can choose a full refund or an alternate flight offered by the airline. Shorter delays may lead only to rebooking or assistance, but six hours is often the point where refund and re-routing rights become stronger. At the airport, ask the airline staff to explain your options and get any offer in writing or by email. Keep your boarding pass and booking reference safe. If the airline suggests only vouchers, ask for written confirmation of what the voucher covers and whether cash refund remains an option under DGCA guidance. If you decide to take the refund, follow the airline’s refund process before you leave the counter and request a timeline for the payout. Having timestamps on SMS or email notices helps later if you need to escalate a delayed refund.