Flight delayed or cancelled due to heavy rain: Know how to get your refund

Every year, the monsoon brings along cyclones, thunderstorms, and heavy rainfall. The climate significantly affects the aviation industry, disrupting flight schedules, leading to delays and cancellations.While such disruptions are frustrating, passengers are protected under the ministry of civil aviation's Passenger Charter of Rights and the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) regulations.Heavy rain is treated as a force majeure event, an extraordinary circumstance beyond an airline's control. As a result, airlines are generally not required to pay monetary compensation for delays or cancellations caused by adverse weather.However, passengers have the right to an alternative or a refund. If a flight is cancelled due to heavy rain, the airline must generally offer either a full refund of the ticket fare or an alternative flight, depending on availability and the passenger's preference.During prolonged delays, airlines may also be required to provide assistance, including meals, refreshments, hotel accommodation for overnight stays, and transport between the airport and the hotel, where applicable.According to DGCA, if a ticket was purchased through a travel agent or portal, the airline is responsible for the refund, as agents are their appointed representatives.Additionally, the airlines must ensure that the refund process is completed within 14 working daysTo claim a refund, passengers should submit a request through the airline's website, mobile app or customer service. Those who booked through travel agents or online booking platforms should initiate the process through the same channel.In case an airline fails to process the refund or provide the required assistance, passengers can escalate the matter through the airline's grievance mechanism, the AirSewa portal or the appropriate consumer dispute redressal commission.Get the latest business news and top stories. Download the TOI App.Ready to Make a Smarter Property Decision? Build Your Legacy with TOI Homes.