Air India Fined ₹50,000 for Last-Minute Flight Cancellation
Mohali: Air India fined ₹50,000 over last-minute cancellation
Hindustan Times
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The District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission has ordered Air India to compensate a Zirakpur resident ₹50,000 for cancelling his flight from Bagdogra, West Bengal, just one day prior to travel. The airline failed to provide prior notice or assistance, leaving the family stranded.
- 01Air India was fined ₹50,000 for last-minute flight cancellation.
- 02The cancellation occurred a day before the scheduled flight due to runway maintenance.
- 03The airline failed to provide any alternative arrangements or assistance to the affected passenger.
- 04The complainant incurred over ₹50,000 in additional expenses due to the cancellation.
- 05The commission emphasized the airline's responsibility to assist passengers even in operational issues.
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The District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission has directed Air India to pay ₹50,000 in compensation to Rahul Bhatnagar, a resident of Dhakoli, for cancelling his flight from Bagdogra, West Bengal, just one day before his scheduled return journey on March 23, 2022. The commission, led by president SK Aggarwal, found that Air India did not provide prior notice, alternative arrangements, or any assistance after the cancellation, which was attributed to runway maintenance. Bhatnagar and his family were left stranded and had to arrange their own travel back, incurring costs exceeding ₹50,000 for transport and meals. Air India claimed the cancellation was beyond their control and that the ticket amount had been refunded, but the commission held the airline responsible for failing to assist passengers. The airline is required to pay the compensation within 30 days, with a 6% annual interest penalty for delays.
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This ruling emphasizes the accountability of airlines in providing customer support during cancellations, which can affect how passengers plan their travel and seek assistance.
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