NATIONAL : The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) on Friday directed airlines to provide basic facilities, such as snacks or refreshments, to passengers during flight delays, saying that these measures aim to prioritise “passenger convenience during unforeseen disruptions.”

The ministry of civil aviation, in an advisory shared on X, said, “In pursuance to Para 3.8.1(a) of CAR Section 3, Series M Part IV issued by DGCA, Airlines have been advised to provide facilities to passengers during flight delays. These measures are designed to prioritize passenger convenience during unforeseen disruptions. As per advisory issued by Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), airlines to provide drinking water for delays of flight up to 2 hours, tea or coffee with snacks/refreshments for delays between 2 to 4 hours, and meals for delays exceeding 4 hours. These provisions aim to enhance passenger experience while addressing their basic needs during extended waiting times.”

The advisory comes amid delays in the national capital caused by low visibility due to fog. On Monday, poor weather conditions resulted in at least 15 flight diversions and delays affecting more than 100 flights. Typically, the fog season in Delhi begins in early December.

On Wednesday, civil aviation minister K Rammohan Naidu convened a review meeting with stakeholders on fog preparedness. He urged airlines to proactively notify passengers about delays and ensure all check-in counters are adequately staffed to reduce travel disruptions.

Additionally, as per existing norms, passengers can deplane through the airport departure gate if there is an extended delay after boarding.

DGCA on their X handle posted, In pursuance to Para 3.8.1(a) of CAR Section 3, Series M Part IV issued by DGCA, Airlines have been advised to provide facilities to passengers during flight delays. These measures are designed to prioritize passenger convenience during unforeseen disruptions.

As per advisory issued by Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), airlines to provide drinking water for delays of flight up to 2 hours, tea or coffee with snacks/refreshments for delays between 2 to 4 hours, and meals for delays exceeding 4 hours.

These provisions aim to enhance passenger experience while addressing their basic needs during extended waiting times. (Hindustan Times)