The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has issued fresh guidelines to enhance passenger comfort during flight delays. Airlines are now required to provide refreshments, meals, and proactive communication, especially during weather-related disruptions in fog-prone regions like Delhi.
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has recently introduced new guidelines for airlines to prioritize passenger convenience during unexpected flight delays. This directive aims to improve the overall travel experience, especially amid disruptions caused by unpredictable weather conditions.
Guidelines for In-Flight Delays
The Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA), in a recent advisory shared on social media platform X, outlined the new measures based on the DGCA’s CAR Section 3, Series M Part IV regulations:
• Flights Delayed Up to 2 Hours: Passengers must be provided with drinking water.
• Flights Delayed Between 2 to 4 Hours: Airlines are required to serve tea, coffee, and snacks or refreshments.
• Flights Delayed Over 4 Hours: Full meal service should be provided to passengers.
These provisions aim to address the basic needs of travellers and make long waiting times more comfortable.
Weather-Related Disruptions in Delhi
The announcement follows a series of weather-related disruptions in Delhi, with low visibility due to heavy fog leading to multiple flight delays and diversions.
Notably, earlier this week, poor visibility caused 15 flight diversions and delays impacting over 100 flights. The fog season in Delhi typically starts in early December, making these measures timely.
Civil Aviation Minister’s Review Meeting
In response to the ongoing disruptions, Civil Aviation Minister K. Rammohan Naidu held a review meeting with key stakeholders. He emphasized the need for proactive communication with passengers, urging airlines to provide timely updates about flight delays. The Minister also highlighted the importance of staffing all check-in counters to mitigate travel inconveniences.
Provisions for Extended Flight Delays
Under the revised guidelines:
• Airlines must cancel flights if delays extend beyond three hours.
• Passengers can deplane through the airport departure gate if a lengthy delay happens after boarding.
Measures for Fog-Related Disruptions
To further address the challenges posed by fog, the Ministry of Civil Aviation has taken several steps:
• Airport Preparedness: Delhi Airport, the busiest in India, is equipped with advanced technology like Category III Instrument Landing Systems (ILS) to enable flights to operate in low-visibility conditions.
• Airline Readiness: Airlines have been directed to deploy CAT II/III-compliant aircraft and pilots to ensure smooth operations during fog.
• Passenger Communication: Airlines are required to proactively inform passengers about delays or cancellations and maintain accurate passenger contact information.
• Efficient Passenger Handling: Airlines must ensure adequate staffing at check-in counters to minimize waiting times.
• Real-Time Information: Delhi Airport will utilize LED screens to provide real-time updates on visibility conditions.
Focus on Passenger Satisfaction
The Civil Aviation Minister highlighted the importance of collaboration among Air Traffic Controllers (ATCs), airlines, airport operators, and ground handlers. This cooperation aims to minimize disruptions and ensure seamless travel experiences for passengers, even during challenging weather conditions.
Conclusion
The DGCA’s guidelines aim to enhance passenger comfort during delays, requiring airlines to offer refreshments based on wait times. These measures are timely, especially with winter approaching in fog-prone northern India.
Source: https://travelobiz.com/airlines-to-offer-food-water-to-passengers-during-flight-delays/
