Passenger Rights

Delay vs Cancellation — Your Rights Are VERY Different

Updated June 25, 2026 | 5 min read

Most passengers don't know: your rights for a delayed flight are completely different from a cancelled flight. Here's what airlines owe you in each case.

Delayed Flight Rights

Delay Duration	What You Get
2-4 hours	Free meals and refreshments
4-6 hours	Meals + option to rebook on next available flight
6+ hours	Meals + free rebooking + hotel accommodation (if overnight)

Cancelled Flight Rights

💰 Full refund: Within 7 days if you don't want rebooking
✈️ Free rebooking: Next available flight at no extra cost
🏨 Hotel + meals: If next flight is next day
💵 Compensation: Up to ₹10,000 depending on notice period — full details

Key Differences

Factor	Delay	Cancellation
Refund	Only if 6+ hrs	Always
Compensation	Rarely	Up to ₹10,000
Meals	After 2 hrs	Always

Know Your Rights

Search Flights | Compensation Guide | File DGCA Complaint