Indian airlines are now required to provide refreshments and meals to passengers during flight delays, following a new advisory issued by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). The directive seeks to enhance passenger convenience amid seasonal challenges, particularly the low visibility that often disrupts flight schedules during winter in northern India.
Under the advisory:
- For delays lasting up to two hours, airlines must provide drinking water.
- For delays between two and four hours, passengers are entitled to tea, coffee, and snacks.
- For delays exceeding four hours, airlines are required to serve meals.
This announcement comes as flight operations across India begin to face cascading disruptions caused by weather-related delays, a common challenge during the winter months.
The Ministry of Civil Aviation reinforced the importance of these measures in a statement on X (formerly Twitter):
“Airlines have been advised to provide facilities to passengers during flight delays. These measures aim to prioritize passenger convenience during unforeseen disruptions… Drinking water for delays up to two hours; tea or coffee with snacks for delays between two and four hours; and meals for delays beyond four hours.”
Industry experts view the move as a positive step toward enhancing passenger satisfaction and minimizing the impact of delays. Passengers have often expressed frustration with insufficient facilities during prolonged disruptions, and this new policy is expected to address these concerns.
Airlines are anticipated to implement the directive promptly, with the DGCA emphasizing strict compliance to ensure the comfort of travelers during this challenging season.