Good news for air travelers: Aviation ministry makes regulations in fare refund policies

New Delhi: If you are a frequent air traveler, here’s some good news for you! After a string of issues faced by the travelers came in light, the Civil Aviation Ministry has now come up with certain regulations in its fare refund and travel policies which will force airlines to pull up their socks, and ease the stress of the commuters. Considering the indiscriminate policies followed by airlines on flight cancellations, the Civil Aviation Ministry on Saturday announced several steps to rein them in and said, ‘such charges can't exceed the base fare’. At a press conference here, Civil Aviation Minister P. Ashok Gajapathi Raju also said airlines must ensure that refunds on cancelled tickets are made within 15 days, even if the bookings were made through agents and portals. "All taxes, levies and user and airport development fees shall be refunded in case of no-show and cancellations," the minister said. "The compensation has also been significantly enhanced to up to Rs 20,000 in case of denied boarding due to over-booking." In case of flight cancellations announced within 24 hours of departure, the compensation amount has been enhanced to up to Rs 10,000.  Apart from this, refunds will also be applicable on all fares, including promotional and special rates. "It shall also be the prerogative of passenger to decide whether to get cash refund or hold the amount in credit." Also taking note of arbitrary levy on excess baggage, the minister said “such charges for upto 5 kg beyond the 15 kg limit can be charged at no more than Rs100 per kg. "The regulations are also being amended to ensure significant improvement in the facilities to people with disabilities."