Flight Seat Broken? Here’s How You Can File A Complaint And Seek Compensation

Flight seat

Air travel is considered one of the most common ways to travel because of its speed and efficiency. Ticket costs are sometimes higher than train tickets, which is why many travellers expect the best facilities on board. But sometimes issues like a broken seat or unsatisfactory services can dampen the experience, right? The good news is that there are ways to address these issues. Keep reading to know how a traveller can raise a complaint and even seek compensation.

How To Get A Refund For Poor Service & Broken Seat On A Flight?

Aeroplanes are the fastest mode of transportation and are also very convenient. Travellers expect the service quality to be exceptional to justify the ticket prices, which are not cheap. But many times travellers face issues like broken seats, bad service, unclean washrooms, non-functional buttons and more on flights. These problems can easily dampen the whole experience. Many passengers take to social media to highlight the issue. But what is the right way to address such problems?

According to Moneycontrol, there are proper ways to raise a complaint and address these problems. Not just that, a traveller can even seek compensation if they are not satisfied with the overall service on the flight. Reportedly, in case of any deficiency in service, a passenger should first approach the airline. This is the first step a traveller should take. A passenger can use the airline’s grievance system or the AirSewa portal. Airlines are expected to review these complaints and give a response within a reasonable time.

Also Read: This Smart Trolley At Hyderabad Airport Shows Your Gate, Flight Status & Terminal Directions

Passengers Can Approach The Consumer Commission

Even after approaching the airline, if the issue is not resolved, a passenger should approach the Consumer Commission. According to Moneycontrol, poor or faulty service falls under “deficiency in service”. Under the Consumer Protection Act 2019, this refers to any fault, imperfection, shortcoming or inadequacy in the quality or performance of a service.

In such cases, the consumer can file a complaint before the appropriate Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission under the Consumer Protection Act, 2019. A consumer can seek a refund of the amount paid and even compensation for poor service.

According to Moneycontrol, rules of the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) cover the ticket value, but the Consumer Commission can award additional compensation for poor service and mental agony. However, a passenger must file these claims within two years of the incident to receive compensation or a refund. 

Also Read: DGCA Eases Refund Rules After Rise In Complaints, Introduces Free 48-Hour ‘Look-In’ Option

So, the next time you experience poor service on a flight or even get a broken seat, you can always seek compensation for it!

Cover Image Courtesy: Pexels/ ClickerHappy (Representative Image)

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Ashmeet Guliani: A coffee lover at heart, Ashmeet is a writer who enjoys exploring new cafes and discovering hidden gems. When not working, she is found reading, playing with dogs, or dreaming up a new coffee recipe to try.