Question 1

Does the Consumer Protection Act apply to flight delays and cancellations in India?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Airlines are considered service providers under the CPA, and passengers are consumers, so avoidable delays, last-minute cancellations, and denied boarding can be challenged as deficiency of service or unfair trade practices, in addition to DGCA remedies.

Question 2

How much compensation can I get for a delayed domestic flight?

Accepted Answer

If your flight is delayed beyond the DGCA thresholds and the airline fails to provide meals, refreshments, or reasonable alternatives, you can claim these entitlements plus compensation for inconvenience through consumer forums. Financial compensation for cancellations and denied boarding is generally capped at ₹10,000 for domestic flights, but CPA-based damages can increase the overall relief where misconduct is proven.

Question 3

What are my rights if my flight is cancelled at short notice?

Accepted Answer

If you are informed less than a prescribed time before departure and no suitable alternative is offered, you are entitled to a full refund or an alternate flight, and may claim regulated compensation up to ₹10,000, whichever is lower. You can also seek additional damages under CPA for consequential losses and mental agony if the cancellation stems from the airline’s operational failures rather than extraordinary events.

Question 4

How do I file a complaint for flight delay or cancellation under consumer law?

Accepted Answer

Start by filing a written complaint with the airline and keeping all records, including tickets, boarding passes, and expense proofs. If the airline does not resolve the matter, you can file a complaint online via consumerhelpline.gov.in or directly before the District Consumer Commission with jurisdiction over the place of booking or residence, attaching evidence of the disruption and the relief sought.

Question 5

What if my losses include hotels, taxis, or missed events?

Accepted Answer

DGCA compensation mainly covers ticket-related amounts and standard care, but consumer forums under the CPA may award additional damages for reasonably foreseeable losses like non-refundable hotels or transfers, if you prove a causal link and show that the airline’s conduct was deficient. Documenting all expenses and communications significantly strengthens such claims.