Flight Ticket Refund Process India 2026 — How to Get Your Money Back

Flight cancellations happen, and getting your refund shouldn't be difficult. Here's a complete guide to the refund process for domestic and international flights in India.

Step 1: Know Your Refund Eligibility

Your refund depends on your fare type and who cancelled:

• Airline cancels your flight: Full refund, no cancellation fee — guaranteed by DGCA
• You cancel a refundable ticket: Refund minus cancellation fee
• You cancel a non-refundable ticket: Usually no refund, but statutory taxes may be refunded
• You have travel insurance: Covered cancellations may be fully refundable

Step 2: Cancel Your Ticket

Cancel through the same channel you booked:

• Booked on airline website: Cancel via the airline's "Manage Booking" page
• Booked on TheBookFlight: Contact us via WhatsApp with your PNR
• Booked through travel agent: Contact the same agent for cancellation

Step 3: Check Refund Timeline

DGCA mandates the following refund timelines:

Step 4: Track Your Refund

• Check the airline's "Manage Booking" page for refund status
• Check your credit card or bank statement for credit
• Keep your cancellation confirmation email as proof
• Note the refund reference number

What If Your Refund Is Delayed?

1. Contact the airline: Call customer care with your PNR and cancellation reference
2. File complaint on AirSewa: Visit airsewa.gov.in or call 1800-11-4000
3. Contact your bank: For credit card payments, you can file a chargeback dispute
4. Consumer forum: For unresolved cases, file a complaint with the Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission

Airline Cancellation Fees (Domestic)

Fees are approximate and vary by fare class and timing. Always check the airline's latest policy.