Indian Airlines Ordered to Share Passenger Rights Link for Better Awareness, DGCA Directs
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has directed all Indian airlines to provide a link to passenger rights alongside air tickets. With the number of air travellers in India skyrocketing, including a growing segment of first-time flyers, the DGCA is keen to ensure that passengers are fully informed about their entitlements in cases of service deficiencies. These can include issues such as flight delays, cancellations, denied boarding, or baggage mishandling.
The directive comes amid an explosion in air travel across the country, with many passengers unfamiliar with their rights and the grievance redressal mechanisms available. DGCA Chief Faiz Ahmed Kidwai highlighted the importance of making this information readily accessible to ensure transparency and prevent any confusion during air travel disruptions. “Passengers should be well-informed about their rights, just as they are about their duties as travellers,” an official from the DGCA noted.
IndiGo, one of India’s largest carriers, has already responded to the directive. According to reports, the airline will begin incorporating the passenger rights link in their communication with customers by March 25. Once a ticket is booked, passengers will receive a message containing a link to the DGCA’s passenger charter, which outlines various rights related to delays, cancellations, and compensation. Additionally, the link will be available on the airline’s website, ensuring passengers can access the information at their convenience.
This shift is part of a broader effort to improve the customer experience in India’s increasingly crowded skies, where flight delays and cancellations are common due to factors such as weather, air traffic congestion, and operational inefficiencies. By ensuring that passengers are aware of their rights, the DGCA hopes to foster greater trust and accountability in the airline industry.
Transport experts have welcomed the DGCA’s move, noting that it marks a step forward in making air travel more passenger-friendly. However, some industry observers caution that simply providing access to this information may not be enough. They stress the need for effective implementation of the regulations and a more robust mechanism to handle complaints swiftly and efficiently. As the aviation sector continues to expand, it remains crucial for both passengers and airlines to be aligned on expectations and responsibilities. The DGCA’s latest initiative signals a growing recognition of the need for passenger-centric reforms, ensuring that air travel in India becomes not only more accessible but also more equitable and transparent.
