Denied boarding? Airline must pay 20k

Denied boarding due to overbooked flight?

As the bustling travel season picks up, it's essential to be prepared for the unexpected—like being denied boarding on your flight. Whether due to overbooking, weather disruptions, or other reasons, knowing your rights can make all the difference.

Flight cancellations and delays due to poor weather and low visibility are troubling passengers in India again. What can you do in these situations, and what are your rights as a passenger?

Let's dive into what you can do if you find yourself in this frustrating situation.

Compensation for Denied Boarding

First things first: compensation. In India, if you're denied boarding against your will, the airline is obligated to compensate you, as per the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) guidelines. The amount varies based on the flight duration:

Flights under 1 hour: Rs 5,000 or the booked one-way basic fare plus airline fuel charge, whichever is lower.

Flights between 1 to 2 hours: Rs 10,000 or the booked one-way basic fare plus airline fuel charge, whichever is lower.

Flights over 2 hours: Rs 20,000 or the booked one-way basic fare plus airline fuel charge, whichever is lower.

These compensations are designed to mitigate the inconvenience caused to passengers due to denied boarding.

What to Do If Denied Boarding

When you're denied boarding, the airline should offer you an alternative flight or a full refund of your ticket, including taxes. You should:

Ask for written documentation stating the reason for denied boarding.

Request immediate compensation as applicable.

Choose between a refund or an alternative flight. If you opt for an alternative, the airline should also provide assistance like food, refreshments, and accommodation if necessary.

Can I Get a Refund?

Absolutely! If you decide not to travel at all, you are entitled to a full refund of your ticket, not just compensation. Make sure to process this request at the airport if possible or through the airline’s customer service.

Tips for Managing Denied Boarding

Arrive early: Being early at check-in can sometimes help avoid being bumped in case of an overbooked flight.

Know the policy: Familiarize yourself with the airline's policy on denied boarding before you travel.

Keep documentation handy: Save all your travel documents and any communication with the airline regarding the denied boarding.

Denied boarding can disrupt your travel plans, but knowing your rights ensures you’re not left at a disadvantage. Stay informed, ask for your entitled benefits, and most importantly, keep a cool head to manage the situation effectively. Safe travels, and remember to check back for more travel tips and updates!

India Baggage Rules