Airline not refunding your rain-delayed flight? Here’s how to escalate it

Passengers whose airlines fail to process a refund or provide required assistance after a rain-related flight delay or cancellation can escalate the matter through the airline’s own grievance mechanism, the government’s AirSewa portal, or the appropriate consumer dispute redressal commission, according to Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) rules.

Heavy rain is classified as a force majeure event, which generally exempts airlines from paying monetary compensation for weather-related disruptions. Passengers nonetheless retain the right to a full refund or an alternative flight if their journey is cancelled, depending on availability and preference, and airlines must complete the refund process within 14 working days.

DGCA rules also specify that airlines remain responsible for refunds even when tickets are booked through a travel agent or online portal, since such agents act as the carrier’s appointed representatives.

During prolonged delays, airlines may additionally be required to provide meals, refreshments, hotel accommodation for overnight stays, and transport between the airport and hotel. Passengers should first submit refund requests through the airline’s website, app or customer service, or the platform used to book, before escalating unresolved cases.