Flight Cancellation Refund: Flight delayed due to fog in North India? Government’s new guidelines for travelers

• Ministry of Civil Aviation orders to all airlines
• Refund including meal in case of flight delay
• Orders to deploy teams to help passengers

Flight Cancellation Refund: Dense fog and low visibility have caused major disruption to air traffic across North India. In view of this situation, the Ministry of Civil Aviation on Tuesday directed all airlines to strictly follow the norms related to passenger amenities. The ministry clarified that the safety and comfort of passengers should be the top priority in the event of inclement weather. The Civil Ministry has urged passengers to check the status of their flights before going to the airport and leave with extra time for travel.

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Air traffic stopped; 118 flights cancelled

Widespread effects of smog were seen at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport. A total of 118 flights were canceled and 16 diverted due to low visibility on Tuesday. Besides, around 130 flights operated late. According to an official, the canceled flights included 60 incoming and 58 outgoing flights. Delhi International Airport Limited has informed on social media that the planes are not technically capable of flying in low visibility (Cat 3 standard), the only hindrance to their operations.

Air India has announced an initiative called ‘Fogcare’ to help passengers. Under this, if a flight is likely to be affected due to fog, passengers can change their travel date at no extra cost or get a full refund without any deduction. The company said its ground fleets are deployed at key airports to assist passengers. The Airports Authority of India has also deployed relief teams at the affected airports.

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Instructions issued by the Ministry

• Airport should provide food to passengers in case of delay.
• If the flight is cancelled, another flight should be arranged otherwise the full amount will have to be paid.
• Passengers should be allowed to board the aircraft only after timely check-in and their grievances should be redressed promptly.

Where to complain?

If the airline refuses to give you food or refund, you can complain to the ‘nodal officer’ at the airport or you can file a complaint through the central government’s Air Seva portal or Power Online.