Airlines must pay compensation if passenger denied boarding, says DGCA

Airlines are liable to pay compensation of up to INR 10,000 to a passenger who is denied boarding and the carrier is not able to arrange another flight within an hour. However, for any delay beyond 24 hours, a compensation of up to INR`20,000 has to be paid.

These are liable only in cases where the traveller is holding a valid ticket and has presented it on time, according to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). The aviation regulator reiterated the existing rules, even as it fined Air India INR 10 lakh for not adhering to the norm.

“Our stipulations on the subject are in sync with the FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) and the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) and similar regulations are followed globally to accord appropriate respect to passenger rights. Recently, the DGCA had issued strict instructions to all domestic airlines to abide by the said regulation in letter and spirit,” the aviation regulator said in a press note.

Last month, after several complaints of airlines denying boarding to passengers with valid tickets, the DGCA had written to all airlines directing them to strictly comply with the regulations.