Advisory issued to airlines by DGCA to provide “minimum amenities” to passengers

The DGCA has said that for delayed flights measures to prioritize “passenger convenience during unforeseen disruptions” must be taken.

On Friday, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) directed airlines to provide passengers with basic facilities such as snacks and refreshments during flight delays. These measures aim to prioritize “passenger convenience during unforeseen disruptions.”

What did the Ministry of Civil Aviation say?

Taking to X, the Ministry of Civil Aviation said, “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. As per an advisory issued by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), airlines are to provide drinking water for flight delays of up to 2 hours, tea or coffee with snacks/refreshments for delays between 2 to 4 hours, and meals for delays exceeding 4 hours. These provisions aim to enhance passenger experience while addressing their basic needs during extended waiting times.”

The Advisory comes after an increasing number of flight delays in recent times.

In recent times, many airlines faced flak from passengers, who complained about flight delays. The advisory; however has come amid delays in the national capital caused by low visibility due to fog. On Monday, poor weather conditions resulted in at least 15 flight diversions and delays affecting more than 100 flights. Typically, the fog season in Delhi begins in early December.

Civil Aviation minister asks airlines to provide delay notifications to passengers.

Civil Aviation Minister K Rammohan Naidu, on Wednesday, convened a review meeting with stakeholders on fog preparedness. He urged airlines to proactively notify passengers about delays and ensure all check-in counters are adequately staffed to reduce travel inconvenience and disruptions. Also, passengers can deplane through the airport departure gate, as per existing norms, if there is an extended delay after boarding. As per a release by the Civil Aviation Ministry, “The flight has to be canceled if the delay is exceeding three hours.”