DGCA to issue new rules to compensate passengers whose tickets are involuntarily downgraded by airlines

The DGCA will issue new norms to compensate passengers whose tickets have been involuntarily downgraded by airlines.

The move comes against the backdrop of rising complaints about airlines involuntarily downgrading tickets issued to passengers of a particular class.

"The amendment will allow the passenger, who is downgraded involuntarily from his booked class of ticket, to receive the full value of the ticket including taxes as a refund from the airline and the airline will carry the passenger free of cost in the next available class," DGCA said in a statement on Friday.


The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) is in the process of amending the Civil Aviation Requirement (CAR) pertaining to 'facilities to be provided to passengers by airlines due to denied boarding, cancellation of flights and delays in flights." to protect the rights of air travellers affected by the downgrading of their ticket.

After stakeholder consultations, final regulations will be issued by the watchdog.

(inputs from agencies)