How to claim a refund if your train or flight is cancelled: Check rules, online process and refund timelines

Unexpected travel cancellations can disrupt plans and leave passengers wondering how to recover their money. Whether a train is cancelled by Indian Railways, an airline cancels a flight or a passenger decides not to travel, refund eligibility and procedures depend on the reason for cancellation and the type of ticket booked.

How To Get A Refund On A Cancelled Train Ticket?

Passengers who book train tickets through IRCTC can claim refunds depending on the train's cancellation status and ticket category.

1. If Indian Railways Cancels The Train

If Indian Railways officially cancels a train, passengers with confirmed or RAC e-tickets are generally eligible for a full refund.

- For IRCTC e-tickets, the refund is processed automatically.

- Passengers do not need to cancel their tickets or file a Ticket Deposit Receipt (TDR).

- The refund is credited to the original payment account.

The refund generally takes around 3-7 working days after the scheduled departure, although processing times may vary

If You Want To Cancel Your Train Ticket

If you decide not to travel, you can cancel your IRCTC e-ticket online by following these steps:

1. Visit the official IRCTC website and log in to your account.

2. Go to 'My Account' and select 'My Transactions'.

3. Open the 'Booked Ticket History' section.

4. Select the ticket you want to cancel.

5. Choose the passengers whose tickets need to be cancelled.

6. Confirm the cancellation.

The refund will be credited to the original payment method after applicable cancellation charges are deducted

How To Get A Refund On A Cancelled Flight Ticket?

Flight refunds in India are governed by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). The refund process depends on whether the airline cancelled the flight or the passenger decided to cancel the booking.

1. If The Airline Cancels Your Flight

If an airline cancels a flight, passengers are entitled to either an alternative flight or a full refund of the ticket, depending on the applicable circumstances and passenger's choice.

Steps To Claim A Flight Ticket Refund

If your flight has been cancelled, follow these steps:

1. Visit the airline's official website or mobile application.

2. Open the 'Manage Booking' or 'My Trips' section.

3. Enter your PNR or booking reference number and registered email ID.

4. Check the cancellation notification and available refund options.

5. Select the refund option instead of accepting an alternative flight if you prefer your money back.

6. Submit the request and save the refund confirmation.

If you booked through a travel portal or agent, you can approach the booking platform for assistance.

What To Do If Your Train Or Flight Refund Is Delayed?

If your refund has not arrived within the applicable processing period, you can take the following steps:

- For train tickets: Check the refund status under IRCTC's 'Ticket Refund History' section.

- For flight tickets: Contact the airline's customer support team with your PNR and cancellation reference number.

- For travel portal bookings: Raise a complaint through the platform where you purchased the ticket.

- Escalate the complaint: If the issue remains unresolved, passengers can approach the relevant railway or aviation grievance redressal channels.