How To Cancel an Air India Ticket Booked Online
Air India started as Tata Airlines in 1932 and was later nationalized in 1953. It became India’s national carrier. But that didn't mean the airline would only fly domestic. In 1938, Air India had its first international flight to Colombo, Sri Lanka. And since its privatization in 2022, Air India’s market share for long-haul routes has increased from 16% to 21%. Air India has been the only Indian player in the industry, providing non-stop international connectivity. While Air India flights are affordable, the cancellation and refund process can be complicated. In this blog, we will discuss how to cancel an Air India flight easily. Please keep reading to know more.
Air India Cancellation Policy and Charges
It is recommended that you cancel your flight booking using the same method you used for booking. For example, if you booked the ticket through the app, then it’s better to cancel it on the app. Usually, the cancellation policy of Air India flights depends on the fare, class, and time before departure. The refund amount varies accordingly. Air India follows a 24-hour rule that allows free cancellation or change of flight ticket if done within 24 hours of booking, but the departure must be at least 7 days away. If you want to know more about the cancellation fee structure, here is a detailed table to help you out:
| Cabin Brand | Economy Value | Economy Classic | Economy Flex | Premium Economy Classic | Premium Economy Flex | Business Classic | Business Flex | First First |
| Change Fee | $160 | >3days = $50, 0-3 days = $160 | Free | >3days = free, 0-3 days = $150 | Free | > 3days = $30, 0-3 days = $180> 3days = $30, 0-3 days = $180 | Free | Free |
| Cancellation Fee | $250 | $250 | $25 | >3days = $100, 0-3 days = $250 | $50 | > 3days = $180 , 0-3 days = $300 | > 3days = Free, 0-3 days = $70 | > 3days = Free, 0-3 days = $70 |
| No Show Fee | Taxes refundable | Taxes refundable | Taxes refundable | Taxes refundable | Taxes refundable | Taxes refundable | Taxes refundable | Taxes refundable |
| No show and change fee | $300 | $300 | $75 | $300 | $150 | $320 | $210 | $210 |
The table explains the cancellation fees you will be charged if you cancel your Air India flight. Please note that "Change means any itinerary modifications like date, destination, or flight number changes, while "cancellation refers to passenger-initiated booking cancellations. Here are the different types of deductions:
- Change fee means the fee you are charged when you modify your itinerary.
- No-show fee means when a passenger fails to show up for the booking.
- A cancellation fee is charged when you cancel the booking.
| NOTE: While you may get a refund for your base fee, you won't necessarily get a refund of your branded fare. It is actually a group of features/services that are sold separately under a unique name during flight booking. For example, seat selection during booking a flight is a branded fare; it is not part of the base fee, but is an added component when you are booking a flight. |
Detailed Guide on How to Cancel Your Air India Ticket
Now that you have an idea about the booking process and cancellation policy, let's get to know how you can cancel your Air India flight ticket.
Cancel the Air India Ticket on the Website
- Go to the official Air India website. Click on "Book and Manage on the menu.
- Under "Manage, select "Manage Booking.
- Enter your PNR number and last name.
- Click on "Submit, then on the next page select the "Modify/Cancel option.
- If you want to make changes to your ticket, you can do so by paying a fee.
- If you want to cancel your ticket, read the cancellation policy and know about the fees before confirming the cancellation.
- Review the cancellation policy on the website and cancel the Air India flight ticket.
Cancel the Air India Ticket using the App
If you have the Air India app, you can also cancel your booking on it. Here is how you can do it:
- Download the app if you don't already have it.
- Sign in using your account details.
- Go to "Manage bookings.
- Enter your booking reference and last name.
- Then click on "Proceed on the next page, and you can modify or cancel the booking.
- Review the cancellation policy and refund status, then cancel your ticket.
Other ways to cancel an Air India ticket
If you booked your Air India ticket through a third-party app, website, or agent, you should cancel the booking through the same platform. Each travel booking app has its own process, so it will vary accordingly. In the case of agents, you can call them and ask to cancel the tickets. You can also call Air India customer care at (800) 223-7776 to cancel your Air India tickets. If you have booked your flight at a ticketing office, you will need to visit the same office to cancel your request/raise a refund request.
How to Request a Refund for Your Canceled Air India Ticket
Most of the time, when you cancel your flights, you receive the refund within 7-10 business days. The refund is processed to the original mode of payment. But, if for some reason a refund request has not been automatically filed and you haven't received your refund yet, here is what you can do.
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Online resolution through mobile/website
If you booked your Air India ticket directly through the Air India website or mobile app, you can request a refund online. As mentioned before, simply go to the "Manage Booking section, enter your booking details (PNR and last name), and follow the prompts to cancel your ticket and initiate a refund request. You will receive email notifications informing you about the ticket cancellation and refund initiation.
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Call the customer care
In case the online resolution doesn't work and you still need help, you can contact Air India's customer support. Go to the customer support portal and raise your concern using your case ID, or give them a call on 1(888) 634 1407 to know more about the status of your refund.
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Third-party apps/travel agents
For those who used third-party apps or travel agents to book the ticket, you need to cancel through the respective platform. In case of apps, cancel the booking on the app, and in case of travel agents, contact the respective agent to request a refund. Air India will not process refunds for tickets booked through third-party apps or agents; you can only get your refund through the respective medium.
How much money will I receive as a refund if I cancel my Air India flight?
The refund will depend on the fare, the ticket class, and the time before the flight. For example, if you have booked an economy value flight with Air India and want to cancel it, you will incur a cancellation fee of $250, whereas the cancellation of a Business Classic Air India flight ticket, more than 3 days before the flight, is absolutely free. For First Class tickets, if canceled 0-3 days before your departure, a cancellation fee of $70 is charged, but cancellations made before that period are completely free. For those looking to save on their next Air India flight booking, GrabOn has some exciting Air India deals you can explore.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a full refund from Air India?
Yes, you can get a free refund from Air India under three circumstances:
- If you cancel your flight within 24 hours of booking, given your cancellation is at least 7 days before your departure.
- If you are canceling a Business Flex Air India ticket > 3 days = before the flight (no cancellation fee applies)
- If you are canceling a first-class Air India ticket > days = before the flight (no cancellation fee)
Can I get a refund for my Air India flight that I missed?
Yes, you can get a refund for your missed Air India flight under certain circumstances. When you fail to show up for the flight, it is considered a "no-show. But Air India provides a two-hour window during which you can cancel your booking. The refund amount will depend on the fare type, flight route, and time of cancellation. However, if you cancel your booking after 2 hours of missing the flight, you won't be eligible for refunds. So, cancel right after missing the flight, and you may be eligible for a refund.
How can I reschedule my Air India international flight online?
To reschedule your Air India flight, head to the website or app. Go to the "Manage Booking section. Then enter your Booking reference number (PNR) and last name. Then select the "Flight Reschedule Service option. Choose the new flight, verify the fare details, and complete the process.
What is the number of Air India customer care in the USA?
The customer care number of Air India is 1 (888) 634-1407. The number is toll-free, so you can call without incurring any charges. If this does not work, try the international customer care number +91 116 932 9333.
If my new fare is lower than my original fare after rebooking, will I get a refund?
No, you do not get a refund if your original fare is higher than your new fare. Air India forfeits the difference when you reschedule or modify your flight. But if you want to get the best price for your flights, check various flight booking sites and compare the prices.
