An airline overbooked and denied me boarding. What are my rights?

What the Law Says

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) sets passenger rights for denied boarding due to overbooking under Civil Aviation Requirements (CAR). These are legally binding rules for all scheduled airlines operating in India.

Airlines must not deny boarding unless due to overbooking, safety, security, or medical reasons. If denied boarding because of overbooking, passengers are entitled to immediate care and fixed monetary compensation.

Care includes meals, two free phone calls/emails, and hotel accommodation (if overnight stay is needed) — starting within 2 hours of denial. Compensation must be paid within 7 days via bank transfer or cheque.

Compensation amounts depend on flight type and distance: ₹20,000 for domestic flights; ₹40,000 for international flights originating from India. Passengers may also choose a full refund or alternate flight.

Statutory Text

In case of denied boarding due to overbooking, the airline shall pay compensation of ₹20,000 for domestic flights and ₹40,000 for international flights.

— Civil Aviation Requirements, Section 3.1 — Passenger Charter

Statutory Text

The airline shall provide care (meals, communication, accommodation) within two hours of denied boarding.

— Civil Aviation Requirements, Section 3.2 — Passenger Charter

Statutory Text

Compensation shall be paid within seven days of the date of denied boarding.

— Civil Aviation Requirements, Section 3.3 — Passenger Charter

What to Do

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