Overview
Cathay Pacific Airways’ missed flight policy outlines options for passengers who fail to board their scheduled flight due to personal reasons, airline-related delays, or other circumstances. The policy varies based on ticket type, fare rules, and applicable regulations, such as EU/UK Regulation 261/2004 for flights departing from Europe or the UK, or U.S. DOT rules for flights to/from the U.S.
Key Policy Details
- No-Show Policy: If you miss your flight without notifying Cathay Pacific in advance, it is considered a "no-show." Non-refundable tickets lose their value, and the entire itinerary may be canceled as tickets must be used in sequence. Refunds or rebooking are not available for no-shows unless specified by fare rules.
- Non-Refundable Tickets: For non-refundable tickets (e.g., Economy Light or Essential fares), no refunds are provided for missed flights. Rebooking may be possible, subject to availability, fare differences, and change fees, which vary by fare type and route.
- Refundable Tickets: Refundable tickets (e.g., Flex fares) may be eligible for a refund of the unused portion, less any applicable fees, if requested within the ticket’s validity period (typically one year from the issue date). Refunds must be processed through Cathay Pacific’s website or customer service if purchased directly.
- 24-Hour Cancellation Policy: For bookings made directly with Cathay Pacific, you can cancel or change your reservation within 24 hours of purchase without penalty, provided the booking is made at least 7 days before departure. This applies to all fare types but does not cover optional charges like baggage fees.
- Missed Connections Due to Delays: If you miss a connecting flight due to a delay or cancellation of a Cathay Pacific-operated flight within the same booking, the airline will rebook you on the next available flight at no additional cost. For delays exceeding 3 hours at your final destination within the airline’s control, you may be eligible for compensation of up to €600 (£520) under EU/UK Regulation 261/2004 for applicable flights.
- Extraordinary Circumstances: No compensation is provided for missed flights due to extraordinary circumstances (e.g., weather, air traffic control issues, or strikes not involving airline staff).
- Assistance for Delays: For delays of 2+ hours within Cathay Pacific’s control, the airline provides meals, refreshments, and access to communication (e.g., two phone calls or emails). For overnight delays, accommodation and transport to/from the hotel are provided.
Steps to Take if You Miss Your Flight
- Contact Cathay Pacific customer service immediately via the website, mobile app, or airport service desk to explore rebooking or refund options.
- Provide your booking reference and explain the reason for missing the flight to determine eligibility for rebooking or refunds.
- Review your ticket’s fare rules to understand applicable fees, restrictions, or refund eligibility.
- Keep documentation (e.g., boarding passes, receipts) for any claims or expense reimbursements.
Note: Policies vary based on ticket type, fare rules, and booking channel (direct or through a travel agency). For code-share flights, the operating carrier’s rules may apply. Always review fare conditions at booking and consider travel insurance for additional protection.
Additional Information
If Cathay Pacific cancels or significantly delays your flight, you may be entitled to a refund, rebooking, or compensation, depending on the circumstances. For EU/UK flights, compensation claims must be filed within the statute of limitations of the departure country (typically 1-6 years). For U.S. flights, refunds for cancellations or significant delays are mandated by U.S. DOT regulations. Retain all receipts and documentation for expenses incurred due to a missed flight.
