Air France’s cancellation policy depends on fare type, booking timing, and applicable regulations. Here’s a concise overview based on the latest information:
24-Hour Cancellation Policy: For flights to/from the United States booked directly through Air France (website, app, call center, or ticket counter), you can cancel within 24 hours of purchase for a full refund without fees, provided the booking is made at least seven days before departure. This aligns with U.S. Department of Transportation rules.
After 24 Hours:
- Non-Refundable Fares (e.g., Economy Light/Standard): These cannot be canceled for a refund after the 24-hour window. You may receive a non-transferable travel voucher valid for one year, minus cancellation fees ($100–$500 depending on fare and route). Changes are allowed for a fee plus any fare difference.
- Refundable/Flexible Fares (e.g., Economy Flex, Premium Economy Flex, Business Flex): These can be canceled without fees, with a full refund to the original payment method. Non-flexible Business or Premium Economy fares may incur fees.
- Award Tickets: Flying Blue award tickets can be canceled, but fees apply based on fare rules and membership level. Refunded miles are credited back to your account.
Airline-Initiated Cancellations: If Air France cancels your flight, you can choose:
- Rebooking on the next available flight at no extra cost.
- A full refund, even for non-refundable tickets.
- A travel voucher for future use.
- Under EU Regulation 261/2004, for flights departing from or arriving in the EU (excluding the UK), you may be eligible for compensation (€250–€600 based on flight distance) if the cancellation is within 14 days of departure and not due to extraordinary circumstances (e.g., weather, strikes). Compensation must be requested via customer service, not at the airport.
Special Circumstances:
- Refunds are possible for medical emergencies or death of a close family member, with documentation (e.g., medical certificate).
- If a flight is delayed by 5+ hours, you can cancel for a refund of unused segments and, if applicable, return to your departure point at no cost.
How to Cancel:
- By Phone: Call +1-877-240-6770 (8 AM–8 PM daily) or +1-877-240-6770 in the U.S. Offline cancellations may incur a $20–$50 fee.
- Through Travel Agents: Contact the agency directly for cancellations or refunds.
- For award tickets, contact Flying Blue directly.
Refund Process:
- Refunds for eligible tickets are processed within 7–20 business days, depending on payment method.
- Taxes and airport fees are refundable for unused tickets, even if non-refundable, minus booking fees unless the cancellation is due to Air France’s error.
- Vouchers are valid for one year and can be used for Air France, KLM, Virgin Atlantic, or Delta flights. Up to three vouchers can be combined.
Additional Notes:
- Always check fare conditions at booking, as they dictate cancellation eligibility and fees.
- For flights within France, cancellations are allowed up to 2 hours before departure; international flights require 4 hours.
- Group bookings or discounted fares may have stricter rules.
