Overview
Air China, China's flag carrier, offers a flexible flight change policy to accommodate passengers needing to modify their travel plans. Changes can be made online, via the mobile app, through the contact center, or at airport ticket counters, subject to fare rules and availability.
Key Policy Highlights
- Risk-Free Period: Changes or cancellations are free within 24 hours of booking for tickets purchased directly through Air China’s website, mobile app, or contact center, provided the booking is made at least seven days before departure. For U.S. routes, this applies to tickets including travel to or from the U.S.
- Eligible Tickets: Most fare types, including Economy, Premium Economy, and Business Class, allow changes, except for certain promotional or restricted fares, which may be non-changeable.
- Fare Difference: If the new flight is more expensive, passengers must pay the fare difference. No refund is provided if the new flight is cheaper, unless specified by the fare type.
- Change Fees: Fees vary by fare type, route, and timing. Flexible fares, such as Business Flexible or Economy Flexible, often allow changes without fees. Restricted fares, like Economy Saver or promotional tickets, may incur a fee, which can range significantly for international flights and be lower for domestic routes. Offline same-day changes may include an additional service fee.
- Same-Day Changes: Same-day changes are allowed up to a few hours before departure, subject to availability. Fees may apply for non-flexible fares, and the new flight must have the same origin and destination.
- Name Changes: Full name changes are not permitted, as tickets must carry the passenger’s real name. Minor name corrections (e.g., spelling errors) are allowed with proper documentation, subject to approval.
- Third-Party Bookings: Tickets booked through travel agencies or third-party platforms must be changed through the original booking source, and Air China’s policy may not fully apply.
- Time Restrictions: Changes must be made before the scheduled departure. The ticket validity period is one year from issuance for unused tickets or from the travel commencement date for fixed-time tickets.
- Standby Alterations: For international flights, passengers with valid Air China tickets can apply for standby alterations, subject to availability. This service is limited to Air China-operated flights and may incur fees.
How to Change Your Flight
Online:
- Visit the Air China website or mobile app and navigate to the “Manage My Booking” or “My Trips” section.
- Enter your booking reference and last name to retrieve your reservation.
- Select the flight to modify, choose a new flight, and review any fees or fare differences.
- Complete the payment process, if applicable, and receive confirmation via email.
Offline:
- Contact Air China’s customer service via phone or online channels for assistance.
- Visit an Air China ticket office or airport counter for in-person changes.
Special Circumstances
- Airline-Initiated Changes: If Air China cancels or significantly delays a flight (e.g., over two hours), passengers can rebook on another flight without fees or request a refund. Notifications are sent via email or text, and rebooking options are provided.
- Medical or Bereavement: In cases of illness or death of a passenger or immediate family member, fee waivers or refunds may be granted with relevant documentation, handled according to Air China’s rules for involuntary changes.
- PhoenixMiles Tickets: Award tickets redeemed with miles allow one free date change, but route changes are not permitted. Additional changes follow the specific ticket’s conditions.
Additional Notes
- Non-Transferable Services: Extras like seat selection or baggage allowances may not transfer to the new flight and may need to be repurchased.
- International Flights: Changes to international flights may involve additional taxes or restrictions based on destination-specific regulations.
- Standby Booking: Standby booking is available for economy class on domestic Air China flights, subject to availability, and requires a PhoenixMiles membership. Changes are not allowed during the standby period.
- Travel Insurance: Purchasing travel insurance is recommended for added flexibility in case of unexpected changes.
