Travel Insurance Coverage: Navigating Flight Disruptions During Monsoon Chaos

Heavy rain and thunderstorms affected Mumbai and numerous districts in Maharashtra on Monday (May 26), causing disruptions to daily activities and raising concerns about travel arrangements. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a yellow alert for the city, predicting strong winds, lightning, and intense rainfall in areas such as Thane, Raigad, Ratnagiri, and Nashik.

Experts are anticipating an early monsoon, which often results in flight delays, diversions, and cancellations—creating challenges for those with travel plans.

In these situations, it’s important to know the specifics of what travel insurance can cover.

Travel insurance does cover adverse weather—under certain conditions

“Most domestic travel insurance policies in India provide coverage for flight delays or cancellations due to unpredictable weather such as heavy rainfall or flooding,” mentioned Meet Kapadia, Head of Travel Insurance at Policybazaar. “However, the delay must surpass a specific threshold—usually between 3 to 6 hours—before the coverage kicks in.”

Vivek Chaturvedi, CMO and Head of Direct Sales at Go Digit General Insurance, added, “The delay or cancellation needs to be a short-notice occurrence. If it was announced well in advance, some policies might not cover it.”

Hotel expenses could be reimbursed

Unexpected overnight accommodations resulting from delayed or diverted flights may also be reimbursed, contingent on the policy.

“Many plans offer reimbursement under ‘Trip Interruption’ or ‘Additional Accommodation’ if your flight is delayed or diverted overnight,” Kapadia stated. “But you’ll need to present receipts and proof of the airline delay.”

Chaturvedi mentioned that airlines often step in first. “Airlines generally cover hotel accommodations if the delay is considerable. Travel insurance can serve as a safety net when airline support is insufficient.”

Emergency landings and rerouted flights are also included

If a flight is redirected to another city or makes an emergency landing due to adverse weather, your policy may provide assistance.

“Such expenses are typically covered under ‘Trip Curtailment’ or ‘Missed Connection’ clauses,” noted Kapadia. “Documentation from the airline is essential to file a claim.”

Chaturvedi pointed out that Digit’s On The Move policy specifically includes coverage for weather-related diversions.

Quicker claims during monsoon emergencies

“Standard claims usually take 7 to 15 working days, but during monsoon emergencies, insurers—including our partners—often offer expedited processing,” Kapadia explained.

Last-minute policy purchases can still be effective

You can acquire travel insurance even a few hours before your trip—but timing is crucial.

“If a weather alert has already been issued prior to buying the policy, claims for related delays could be excluded,” Kapadia cautioned. “Purchase insurance early to ensure full protection.”

Chaturvedi concurred. “Last-minute purchases are valid for truly unforeseen disruptions. However, known delays or cancellations will not be covered.”

Available policies

Here’s a selection of travel policies offered in India:

(Source: Bankbazaar)