1️⃣ Standard Airline Ticket
- Most airline tickets do NOT automatically include travel insurance.
- What you are paying for with your ticket is the flight service only: seat, baggage allowance, and standard liabilities under airline policies.
- Airlines are usually legally liable only for accidents during the flight, under rules like the Montreal Convention (for international flights) or domestic aviation regulations. (iata.org)
2️⃣ Optional Travel Insurance
- Many airlines offer optional travel insurance at the time of booking.
- This usually covers:
✔ Flight cancellations or delays
✔ Lost or delayed baggage
✔ Medical emergencies abroad
✔ Trip interruptions - The cost is extra, often ranging from ₹200–₹1,500 for domestic flights and higher for international trips.
💵 Compensation in Case of Accidents
1️⃣ Airline Liability
If an accident happens during the flight, compensation is governed by international conventions:
International Flights:
- Montreal Convention applies.
- Death or injury: up to ~1.7 million Special Drawing Rights (SDR) (~₹18–20 crore approx., depending on current exchange rates) per passenger.
- Delay of luggage: limited to ~1,288 SDR (~₹1.5 lakh).
Domestic Flights (India):
- The DGCA (Directorate General of Civil Aviation) rules apply.
- Airlines must pay compensation for death or permanent disability:
- Domestic flight: up to ₹25 lakh per passenger (varies with airline and rules).
- Delay in baggage: usually ₹2,000–₹15,000 per passenger depending on weight and airline. (dgca.gov.in)
2️⃣ Travel Insurance Coverage
If you purchased travel insurance:
- Compensation is usually much higher and broader than airline liability.
- Can cover: trip cancellation, lost baggage, medical emergencies abroad, natural disasters, and sometimes even terrorism.
- Claim limits vary by insurer, from ₹5 lakh to ₹50 lakh+, depending on the plan.
⚠️ Key Points to Remember
1. Default tickets do not include travel insurance.
2. Airline compensation is limited to death/injury during the flight and delayed/lost baggage.
3. Buying optional travel insurance is recommended, especially for:
o international travel
o Trips with expensive gadgets, luggage, or pre-paid plans
o Families or senior citizens
Disclaimer:
The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency, organization, employer, or company. All information provided is for general informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, reliability, or suitability of the information contained herein. Readers are advised to verify facts and seek professional advice where necessary. Any reliance placed on such information is strictly at the reader’s own risk.
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