With the severe rainfall alert currently affecting multiple Indian states and monsoon season in full swing, thousands of travellers are facing flight disruptions across the country. If you’re planning to travel during this period or have already been affected by weather-related flight delays and cancellations, this comprehensive guide will help you understand your rights and get the compensation you deserve.

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Why Monsoons Cause Flight Delays

The Indian monsoon season (June to September) brings heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and reduced visibility, making it one of the most challenging periods for air travel. Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai, and Bangalore airports are particularly affected, with delays and cancellations increasing by up to 40% during peak monsoon months.

Current Weather Impact on Flights

With the recent severe rainfall alert issued across multiple states, airlines are proactively canceling flights and issuing travel advisories. Major carriers like IndiGo, Air India, SpiceJet, and Vistara have implemented flexible rebooking policies to help passengers navigate these disruptions.

Your Rights as a Passenger: DGCA Guidelines

Compensation for Flight Delays

According to DGCA (Directorate General of Civil Aviation) regulations, passengers are entitled to compensation for flight delays:

For Domestic Flights:

• 2-4 hours delay: ₹5,000 compensation + refreshments
• 4+ hours delay: ₹10,000 compensation + meals and accommodation (if overnight)

For International Flights:

• 2-4 hours delay: ₹10,000 compensation
• 4+ hours delay: ₹20,000 compensation + meals and accommodation

Flight Cancellation Rights

When your flight is canceled due to weather conditions:

1. Full refund within 7 days for unused tickets
2. Free rebooking on the next available flight
3. Accommodation and meals if the delay extends overnight
4. Ground transportation between airport and accommodation

Important Exceptions

Weather-related disruptions are considered “extraordinary circumstances,” which means airlines may not be liable for compensation if the delay/cancellation is solely due to severe weather conditions beyond their control.

How to Claim Compensation

Step-by-Step Process

1. Document Everything
   • Keep boarding passes and tickets
   • Take photos of delay/cancellation announcements
   • Save receipts for meals and accommodation
2. Contact the Airline
   • File a complaint within 30 days
   • Use airline’s official website or customer service
   • Reference DGCA guidelines in your claim
3. Escalate if Necessary
   • Contact DGCA consumer affairs
   • File complaint on AirSewa portal
   • Consider legal action for amounts above ₹20,000

Required Documents

• Original boarding pass
• Ticket/booking confirmation
• Delay/cancellation certificate from airline
• Receipts for additional expenses
• Bank account details for refund

Travel Insurance During Monsoon Season

What’s Covered

Most travel insurance policies cover:

• Trip cancellation due to severe weather
• Additional accommodation costs
• Meal expenses during delays
• Emergency medical coverage

Choosing the Right Policy

Look for policies that specifically cover:

• Weather-related disruptions
• Pre-existing weather warnings
• Flexible cancellation terms
• 24/7 customer support

Smart Booking Tips for Monsoon Travel

Best Practices

1. Choose Flexible Tickets
   • Opt for refundable or changeable fares
   • Consider airlines with good rebooking policies
2. Monitor Weather Forecasts
   • Check weather alerts 48 hours before travel
   • Use apps like IMD Weather or AccuWeather
3. Allow Extra Time
   • Book connecting flights with longer layovers
   • Plan for potential delays in your schedule

Airport-Specific Tips

Mumbai (BOM): Most affected by monsoon; avoid evening flights Delhi (DEL): Thunderstorms common; check for fog advisories Bangalore (BLR): Generally better weather; good alternative hub Chennai (MAA): Cyclone season overlap; monitor weather closely

What Airlines Are Doing

Current Policies (2025)

IndiGo: Waiving change fees for affected routes
Air India: Offering full refunds for weather cancellations
SpiceJet: Providing hotel accommodation for overnight delays
Vistara: Flexible rebooking up to 15 days from original travel date

Proactive Measures

• SMS/Email alerts for flight status updates
• Travel advisories for severely affected routes
• Dedicated customer service lines for weather-related issues
• Mobile app notifications for real-time updates

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I get compensation if my flight is delayed due to heavy rain?

A: If the delay is solely due to weather, airlines may not provide monetary compensation, but they must provide refreshments, meals, and accommodation as per DGCA guidelines.

Q: How long can airlines delay a flight due to weather?

A: There’s no specific time limit, but if the delay exceeds 24 hours, passengers have the right to a full refund or rebooking.

Q: Should I buy travel insurance for monsoon travel?

A: Yes, comprehensive travel insurance can cover additional costs not covered by airline policies, especially for international travel.

Q: Which airports are most affected during monsoon?

A: Mumbai, Delhi, Kolkata, and Chennai typically see the highest number of weather-related disruptions during monsoon season.

Conclusion

While monsoon-related flight disruptions are inevitable in India, knowing your rights and being prepared can significantly reduce the stress and financial impact. Always stay informed about weather conditions, understand your airline’s policies, and don’t hesitate to claim compensation when entitled.

Planning to book a flight during monsoon season? Use our flight comparison tool to find airlines with the best weather-related policies and flexible booking options. Stay safe and travel smart!