The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) on Friday instructed airlines to offer basic amenities, such as snacks or refreshments, to passengers during flight delays, emphasising that these measures are intended to prioritise “passenger convenience during unforeseen disruptions.”
In a post on X, the agency wrote, “In pursuance to Para 3.8.1(a) of CAR Section 3, Series M Part IV issued by DGCA, Airlines have been advised to provide facilities to passengers during flight delays. These measures are designed to prioritise passenger convenience during unforeseen disruptions.”
In pursuance to Para 3.8.1(a) of CAR Section 3, Series M Part IV issued by DGCA, Airlines have been advised to provide facilities to passengers during flight delays. These measures are designed to prioritize passenger convenience during unforeseen disruptions.
According to the DGCA advisory, airlines are required to provide drinking water for flights delayed up to two hours. For delays between two to four hours, airlines must offer tea or coffee along with snacks or refreshments. For delays exceeding four hours, airlines are obligated to provide meals.
“These provisions aim to enhance passenger experience while addressing their basic needs during extended waiting times,” the DGCA further wrote.
The advisory was issued in response to delays in the national capital caused by low visibility due to fog. On Monday, adverse weather conditions led to at least 15 flight diversions and delays impacting over 100 flights. The fog season in Delhi typically begins in early December.
