India’s aviation regulator — the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) — has introduced a major passenger-friendly policy shift that will bring welcome relief to flyers across the country. Under revised airline ticket refund norms, passengers can now cancel or amend their flight tickets within 48 hours of booking without paying any additional charges, subject to specific conditions.
This important change — known as the 48-hour “look-in option” — is aimed at reducing stress, correcting booking errors, and giving travelers more flexibility shortly after they purchase a ticket. The revised rules come into effect from March 26, 2026.
What the New 48-Hour Rule Means
Under the updated Civil Aviation Requirements (CAR) issued by the DGCA on February 24, 2026:
✔ Penalty-Free Cancellation & Amendments
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Passengers can cancel or modify flight bookings without paying additional charges within 48 hours of booking.
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This applies only to tickets booked directly through an airline’s website.
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If you choose a different flight within the window, the fare difference may apply, but no cancellation or amendment fee should be charged.
✔ Conditions & Eligibility
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Domestic Flights: Fare must be for a flight departing at least 7 days from the booking date.
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International Flights: Applicable when departure is at least 15 days away.
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The rule does not apply if the booking is made through third-party travel portals or agents — however, airlines are responsible for refunds even in such cases.
✔ Name Corrections
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Airlines cannot charge extra for correcting passenger names if the error is reported within 24 hours of booking (when purchased directly via the airline site).
✔ Refund Timeline
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Airlines are required to process refunds within 14 working days for cancellations.
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If a ticket was paid for by credit card, refunds must be processed within 7 days of cancellation.
Why This Matters for Flyers
This new rule gives travelers a short cooling-off period soon after booking, allowing:
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Correcting mistaken bookings (wrong date, route, or traveler name)
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Responding to sudden plan changes without financial penalties
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Avoiding confusion and high cancellation fees shortly after purchase
Previously, Indian airlines did not offer a uniformly guaranteed refund or change window — a source of frequent traveler complaints. The DGCA’s move seeks to align India’s passenger protections with consumer-friendly practices seen in other major markets.
How the 48-Hour “Look-In Option” Works
Here’s a simple breakdown:
| Feature | Rule Details |
|---|---|
| Free Cancellation Window | 48 hours after ticket booking |
| Booking Channel | Direct airline website (not necessarily third-party portals) |
| Domestic Travel | Flight departure ≥ 7 days from booking |
| International Travel | Flight departure ≥ 15 days from booking |
| Name Correction | Free within 24 hours |
| Refund Timeline | Within 14 working days |
Important Notes for Travelers
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Fare Difference May Apply: If you rebook a different flight with a higher fare within 48 hours, you will need to pay the fare difference.
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Third-Party Bookings: If booked through travel agents or online travel portals, the airline must still handle refunds, but the 48-hour exception may not always apply unless specified.
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Medical Emergency Protections: The DGCA has also clarified refund provisions for medical emergencies affecting travel plans.
FAQ – 48-Hour Free Cancellation Rule
Q1. When does this policy come into effect?
The 48-hour “look-in” option is effective from 26 March 2026.
Q2. Does this apply to all airlines in India?
Yes — it applies to scheduled domestic carriers, international airlines operating in India, and foreign carriers flying to/from India under the DGCA rules.
Q3. Can I cancel a ticket booked through MakeMyTrip within 48 hours?
The policy applies to direct bookings on airline websites. For third-party platforms, refund responsibility lies with the airline, but additional charges may apply as per platform policy.
Q4. What happens if I cancel after 48 hours?
After 48 hours, standard cancellation and amendment charges will apply as per the airline’s fare rules.
Q5. Are refunds fast now?
Airlines are required to complete refunds within 14 working days, and for credit card payments, usually within 7 days.
People Also Ask (PAA)
Can I cancel international tickets within 48 hours for free?
Yes, if booked directly with the airline and the departure is at least 15 days from the booking date.
Does the 48-hour rule apply to name corrections?
Name corrections must be made within 24 hours to be free of charge — separate from the 48-hour cancellation window.
Will airlines refund taxes and fees too?
Yes — statutory taxes and related charges must also be refunded per the DGCA’s guidelines.
Is this rule mandatory for all Indian airlines?
Yes, as per DGCA’s amended Civil Aviation Requirements (CAR).
Conclusion
The introduction of the 48-hour free cancellation and amendment window by India’s aviation regulator is a significant boon for travelers, offering flexibility, clarity, and stronger consumer protection. Whether you booked by mistake or want to adjust plans immediately after purchase, this “look-in option” gives flyers peace of mind without the stress of early cancellation fees.
With refund timelines now clearly defined and airline practices aligned with passenger interests, this rule marks a welcome shift toward more transparent, traveler-centric air travel in India.
