Passenger Rights

Flight Cancellation Refund — How to Get Your Money Back

Updated June 25, 2026 | 6 min read

Flight cancelled or you need to cancel? Here's exactly how to get your refund — including timelines, fees, and what to do if the airline refuses.

Cancellation Fees by Airline

Airline0-4 Days Before4+ Days Before
IndiGo₹3,000-₹3,500₹2,000-₹2,500
Air India₹3,000-₹3,500₹1,500-₹2,500
SpiceJet₹2,950-₹3,500₹1,800-₹2,500

When Airline Cancels YOUR Flight

✅ You're Entitled to a FULL Refund

If the airline cancels your flight, you get a full refund within 7 days (DGCA rule). No cancellation fee. You can also choose an alternate flight at no extra cost.

How to Get Your Refund

  1. Cancel online: Fastest way — use airline app or website
  2. Request "refund to original payment" — not airline credit
  3. Timeline: Credit card refunds take 5-7 days, bank transfers 7-15 days
  4. If booked via OTA: Cancel through the OTA, not the airline directly

What If Refund is Denied?

  1. 📧 Send formal complaint to airline customer service email
  2. 🏛️ File complaint on AirSewa.gov.in
  3. ⚖️ File in Consumer Court — filing fee is only ₹100-₹500
  4. 🏆 Success rate: Consumer courts rule in passenger's favor 80%+ of the time

Know Your Rights Before Booking

Search Flights | Delay Rights | Travel Insurance