In a welcome move for air travellers, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has reportedly introduced new rules to improve passenger experience during flight delays. With northern prioritisingvisibility conditions already causing disruptions this winter, these measures aim to ensure that passengers’ basic needs are met during extended waits.

Here’s what you need to know:

Refreshments For 2-4 Hour Delays: Passengers on flights delayed between two and four hours will now receive beverages such as tea, coffee, and snacks.

Meals For Delays Over 4 Hours: Airlines must provide passengers with proper meals if the delay extends beyond four hours.

Water For Short Delays: Drinking water must be readily available to all passengers for shorter delays of up to two hours.

These rules reflect the Aviation Ministry's commitment to prioritising passengers' comfort. The Ministry stated that these updates are part of their broader goal to enhance the overall travel experience, ensuring that fundamental needs are attended to during unexpected disruptions.

Besides, the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) has rolled out another passenger-friendly initiative. Passengers stranded onboard aircraft due to weather oprioritisingissues can now re-enter the terminal without hassle, thanks to improved protocols for seamless re-entry and re-boarding. Drills are being conducted to ensure these processes run smoothly when flights resume.

By addressing common pain points like hunger, discomfort, and inconvenience during delays, these measures promise a more stress-free travel experience, even in challenging conditions.

(With inputs from multiple reports)