Train or Flight Delayed Due to Fog? Get 100% Refund Instantly (2026 Rules)

Train or Flight Delayed Due to Fog? Get 100% Refund Instantly (2026 Rules Explained)

New Delhi:
Winter fog has once again disrupted travel across large parts of India and abroad. Dense fog conditions are causing frequent train delays, flight cancellations, and missed connections, leaving passengers confused about one crucial question:
“Am I eligible for a full refund?”

Under the latest 2026 travel and aviation rules, passengers whose train or flight is delayed or cancelled due to fog are legally entitled to 100% refund and, in some cases, additional compensation. Here is a clear, step-by-step breakdown of what your rights are and how to claim your money quickly.

Train Delayed Due to Fog? Indian Railways Refund Rules (2026)

Indian Railways has clear passenger-friendly rules when delays are caused by weather conditions such as fog.

Full Refund Eligibility

You are entitled to a 100% ticket refund if:

Your train is delayed by more than 3 hours at the originating station
Your train is cancelled due to fog or weather conditions

This applies to all ticket types, including:

Sleeper
AC classes
Tatkal tickets (yes, Tatkal charges are also refundable in weather-related cancellations)

How to Claim Train Refund (Online & Offline)

Online (IRCTC App / Website)

Log in to your IRCTC account
Go to My Transactions → Cancel Ticket
Select the affected PNR
Choose Train Delayed / Cancelled as the reason
Submit the request

The refund is automatically credited to your original payment method.

Offline (At the Station)

Visit the reservation counter
Submit your ticket and delay details
Refund is processed as per railway guidelines

Flight Delayed or Cancelled Due to Fog? DGCA Rules (2026 Update)

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has strengthened passenger rights in 2026, especially for weather-related disruptions.

Flight Delay Compensation Rules

Delay over 2 hours: Airlines must provide meals, refreshments, and communication support
Delay over 3 hours or cancellation: Passenger becomes eligible for full refund or free re-booking

Flight Cancelled Due to Fog

If your flight is cancelled because of fog:

You are entitled to a 100% refund, including taxes and convenience fees
Airlines must also offer alternative flights at no extra cost

In some cases, compensation between ₹2,500 to ₹5,000 may apply, depending on flight distance and delay duration.

How to Claim Flight Refund Instantly (Best Method)

Airline App or Website

Open airline app / website
Go to Manage Booking
Enter PNR or ticket number
Select Refund or Compensation Request
Choose delay reason as Weather / Fog
Submit request with delay proof if asked

Most airlines process refunds within 7–14 business days.

Email Complaint (If App Support Fails)

If online processing is delayed:

Email airline customer support
Attach:
- Ticket copy
- Delay or cancellation notification
- Screenshot of flight status
- Bank details (if required)

Airlines are legally required to respond within the DGCA-mandated timeframe.

Important: Collect These Proofs for Faster Refund

To avoid rejection, always keep:

Screenshot of train running status or flight delay
SMS or email alert from airline/railways
Airport or station announcement proof
Weather alert screenshot (fog advisory)

These documents strengthen your refund claim significantly.

Key Legal Rights You Should Know

Indian Railways

Delay over 3 hours = mandatory refund
Weather cancellation = full refund including Tatkal charges

DGCA (Aviation Authority)

Weather delays qualify for refunds
No convenience fee deduction allowed
Compensation applicable in specific cases

These rules protect passengers from financial loss during unavoidable weather disruptions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a train delay due to fog eligible for refund?
Yes. If the delay exceeds three hours or the train is cancelled, a full refund is mandatory.

Can I get a flight refund if fog causes cancellation?
Yes. Airlines must provide a full refund or free re-booking under DGCA rules.

How long does refund processing take?
Typically between 7 to 14 business days, depending on the airline or IRCTC.

Are convenience fees refundable?
Yes, in weather-related cancellations, convenience charges are also refundable.

Conclusion

Fog-related travel disruptions are stressful, but 2026 travel rules strongly favor passengers. Whether it is a delayed train or a cancelled flight, you are entitled to 100% refund and, in some cases, additional compensation.

Always use official apps and websites, keep proof of delay, and submit your claim promptly. Knowing your rights ensures you don’t lose money due to circumstances beyond your control.

Stay informed, travel smart, and claim what you are legally owed.