DGCA's Game-Changing SOPs: Airlines Navigate Weather-Related Flight Delays with New Guidelines

Navigating Delays: DGCA Unveils Guidelines for Airlines During Weather-Related Flight Cancellations.
DELHI, 15 January 2024: In a recent development, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has rolled out a set of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) aimed at guiding airlines when faced with flight cancellations due to prolonged delays caused by adverse weather conditions.

The guidelines, outlined in the Civil Aviation Requirement (CAR) Section-3, Series M Part IV, specifically address the facilities that airlines must provide to passengers in scenarios involving denied boarding, flight cancellations, and delays. These measures are designed to enhance passenger experience during challenging circumstances.

One notable requirement is the mandatory inclusion of the CAR reference on flight tickets. This step ensures transparency and empowers passengers with information about their rights in case of disruptions.

DGCA emphasizes the binding nature of these guidelines, stressing that it is obligatory for all airlines to strictly adhere to the provisions outlined in the CAR. This move is poised to bring about a standardized approach across the aviation sector, fostering accountability and reliability for passengers affected by weather-related flight disruptions.

As travelers grapple with uncertainties during adverse weather conditions, these SOPs serve as a crucial framework to ensure that airlines prioritize passenger welfare and uphold their commitments in times of flight cancellations and delays. This initiative by DGCA marks a significant stride towards a more passenger-centric aviation industry in the face of weather-induced challenges.