NEW DELHI: Airlines will now have to provide beverages and snacks to passengers when flights are delayed by two to four hours and meals on those delayed beyond four hours. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has advised airlines as low visibility in north India has already started leading to delays this winter. And when a flight is delayed on one sector, it leads to consequential delays on all other routes across the airline’s network the aircraft is to operate that day.
The aviation ministry Friday said on X: “… airlines have been advised to provide facilities to passengers during flight delays. These measures are designed to prioritise passenger convenience during unforeseen disruptions. As per advisory issued by DGCA, airlines (have) to provide drinking water for delays of flight up to two hours; tea or coffee with snacks/refreshments for delays between two and four 4 hours; and meals for delays exceeding four hours.”
“These provisions aim to enhance passenger experience while addressing their basic needs during extended waiting times,” the ministry added.