India flight chaos: rebooking, refund and insurance tips

In early December 2025, India’s aviation sector faced significant disruptions, primarily due to IndiGo’s extensive flight cancellations. This situation has left numerous passengers seeking guidance on rebooking, refunds, and insurance options. Understanding your rights and available resources is crucial during such challenging times.

Understanding the Causes of Flight Disruptions

The primary cause of the recent flight cancellations is IndiGo’s inability to adapt to new Flight Duty Time Limitations (FDTL) regulations. These regulations, implemented by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), aim to enhance pilot safety by limiting working hours and mandating rest periods. IndiGo’s failure to comply with these regulations led to a severe crew shortage, resulting in the cancellation of thousands of flights across major airports in Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, and Bengaluru. As of December 5, 2025, IndiGo had canceled all flights from Delhi Airport until midnight, with over 750 flights canceled. The airline’s on-time performance plummeted to 19.7% on Wednesday and 8.5% on Thursday, a significant decline from the typical 35% performance.

In response to the crisis, the Ministry of Civil Aviation intervened, directing IndiGo to clear all pending passenger refunds by December 7 evening. The ministry also barred airlines from charging rescheduling fees for passengers affected by operational disruptions, ensuring that travelers are not penalized for issues beyond their control. Additionally, IndiGo was instructed to establish dedicated passenger support and refund facilitation cells to assist affected travelers promptly.

Passenger Rights and Refund Policies

Passengers whose flights have been canceled are entitled to a full refund of the ticket fare and taxes. IndiGo has committed to processing these refunds automatically to the original mode of payment, eliminating the need for passengers to submit separate requests. This policy applies to all canceled flights between December 5 and 15, 2025.

For those opting to reschedule their travel, IndiGo is offering a complete waiver on cancellation and rescheduling fees for bookings within the affected period. This initiative aims to provide flexibility and alleviate the financial burden on passengers.

In cases where passengers experience significant delays or cancellations, they are entitled to compensation, including meals and accommodation, as per DGCA guidelines. It’s essential to keep all receipts and records of additional expenses incurred due to these disruptions.

Steps to Secure Rebooking and Refunds

If your flight has been canceled, the first step is to contact IndiGo’s customer service or visit their official website to request a refund or rebooking. Given the high volume of cancellations, response times may be longer than usual. Patience and persistence are key during this period.

For rebooking, consider alternative dates and times that align with your travel plans. IndiGo is offering free rebooking options for affected passengers, allowing flexibility without additional charges.

If you encounter difficulties in obtaining a refund or rebooking, document all interactions with the airline, including dates, times, and the names of representatives. This information will be valuable if you need to escalate the issue.

Exploring Travel Insurance Options

Travel insurance can provide coverage for unforeseen events, including flight cancellations and delays. While existing policies may cover some aspects of the current disruptions, it’s advisable to review your policy details to understand the extent of coverage.

In response to the ongoing crisis, the Indian government is considering implementing inbuilt insurance within airfares to facilitate last-minute cancellation refunds. This initiative aims to streamline the refund process and provide passengers with more security during travel disruptions.

Before purchasing travel insurance, assess the specific coverage it offers, including cancellation policies, compensation for delays, and assistance services. Ensure that the policy aligns with your travel needs and provides adequate protection against potential disruptions.

Alternative Travel Arrangements

Given the widespread cancellations, exploring alternative travel options is prudent. Other airlines may have available seats on your intended route, though last-minute fares could be higher due to increased demand.

For shorter distances, consider alternative modes of transportation such as trains or buses. The Indian Railways has been accommodating increased passenger demand by adding additional coaches to premium trains, providing a viable alternative to air travel.

When making alternative arrangements, ensure that the new travel plans align with your schedule and commitments. Factor in potential delays and allow sufficient time for connections to minimize stress and inconvenience.

Staying Informed and Prepared

Regularly monitor updates from IndiGo and the DGCA regarding flight statuses and operational changes. Staying informed will help you make timely decisions and adjust your plans accordingly.

Maintain flexibility in your travel plans to accommodate potential changes. Having contingency plans in place can reduce stress and ensure that you can adapt to unforeseen circumstances effectively.

Keep all travel documents, receipts, and records of communications with the airline organized. This documentation will be essential for processing refunds, insurance claims, or any disputes that may arise.

The recent flight disruptions in India have posed significant challenges for travelers. By understanding your rights, staying informed, and exploring available options, you can navigate this situation more effectively. Remember to remain patient and proactive in seeking resolutions to minimize the impact on your travel plans.

As the aviation industry works towards stabilizing operations, your awareness and preparedness will play a crucial role in ensuring a smoother travel experience during these turbulent times.