Group fares are built around commitment: the airline holds a block of seats for you and turns other buyers away. That is why cancellation rules on group bookings are tighter than on regular tickets. Here is how it generally works, stage by stage, so there are no surprises later.
Before the deposit
A quote you have not paid for costs nothing. You can let it expire. If you need more time, ask for a fresh quote — the fare may change.
After the deposit, before names
This is where most groups shrink. Many airlines allow you to reduce the head-count by a small percentage without penalty; beyond that, the deposit for the dropped seats may be kept. Some fares are fully non-refundable from the moment the deposit is paid. The rule is on your quote — read it before you pay, not after.
After ticketing
Once tickets are issued, each passenger is generally treated under the group fare rules for refunds. Expect a cancellation charge per person, and on some promotional group fares only the taxes and fees are refundable. Statutory taxes are normally refunded even on non-refundable tickets; airline-imposed charges may not be.
When the airline cancels or reschedules
If the airline cancels the flight or changes the timing significantly, you are usually entitled to a free alternative or a refund, regardless of how strict the fare was. In India, passenger rights for cancellations and delays are set out in DGCA's Civil Aviation Requirements. We handle the claim for the whole group block.
How to protect yourself
- Pay the deposit only when the trip is genuinely confirmed internally.
- Ask for the "allowed reduction" percentage in writing.
- Collect money from participants before the balance payment date, not after.
- For expensive international trips, look at travel insurance that covers trip cancellation.
Quick answers
Is the group deposit refundable?
It depends on the airline and the fare. Some deposits are fully refundable within a window, some are partly refundable, and some are not refundable at all. The rule is stated on your quote.
Can one person cancel from a group ticket?
Usually yes, after ticketing. That passenger is refunded under the group fare rules, and the rest of the group is unaffected.
How long do group refunds take?
Airlines typically process refunds within a few weeks, though group refunds can take longer than individual ones. We track it and keep you updated.