As the fears of coronavirus (COVID – 19) intensifies around the world, many globetrotters are being forced to reschedule their travel plans. To cushion this blow, many airlines have offered various waivers. By Team T+L
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Once the situation improves, business will be back on its feet and we’ll soon be ready to sail the skies again. With this positivity in mind, planning your next vacation now might not be such a bad idea. Here’s all you need to know about the current situation of Indian flight waivers.
1. GoAir
Passengers who have booked their flights between March 8 and April 30, can reschedule those tickets for free. Cancellation charges have also been dropped. However, the catch is that the cancellation or rescheduling must be done up to 14 days prior to the departure. When rescheduling a flight, customers will still have to pay the fare difference. This waiver is only valid for a travel period till September 30.
2. Indigo
For any new reservations made on or before March 31, the journey can be rescheduled multiple times without any additional fee. This waiver will only be applicable if the changes have been made three days prior to the travel date. For passengers who already have tickets, they can reschedule their flights multiple times without a fee for travel before March 31. But, for travel dates beyond March 31, passengers can only reschedule their flights for free once. In each case, the fare difference will still be applicable.
3. Vistara
Vistara has waived cancellation and rescheduling charges for bookings made on March 1 or before. Those who still wish to fly, however, can be assured of utmost cleanliness and sanitation in the aircraft. As part of it cleaning process, Vistara has taken measures to disinfect their carriers, including seats, tray tables, latches, galley, seatbelt buckles, lavatories, etc. Additionally, all cleaning staff, airline crew, and on-ground team is given Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) such as body suits, hand gloves, and face masks. Should they suspect any cases, deep cleaning works would be taken in the row seated, along with three rows ahead and behind of it, apart from the usual. In case any positive reports are found, then the entire aircraft will undergo extensive sanitations. In a bid to keep the air in the cabin pure, Vistara’s fleet is equipped with HEPA (High Efficiency-Particulate Arrestors) to remove impurity and viruses automatically every few minutes.
4. Air India
National carrier Air India has waived cancellation and reschedule charges for new bookings. One free change of travel date is permitted for bookings made till March 31. The airline’s international budget arm, Air India Express, too, has offered the same.
Related: Travel In Times Of Coronavirus: Travellers’ Queries Answered