China Airlines, the national carrier of Taiwan, offers a flexible cancellation policy designed to accommodate passengers while maintaining operational efficiency. The policy varies depending on fare type, booking source, and timing of the cancellation. Here are the key details:
24-Hour Risk-Free Cancellation
- For Tickets to/from the USA: You can cancel your flight within 48 hours of purchase for a full refund, provided the ticket is completely unused and was booked at least 7 days prior to departure. No cancellation fees apply.
- For Tickets from Korea: A full refund without fees is available if canceled within 7 days of purchase and the ticket was booked at least 10 days prior to departure.
- General 24-Hour Policy: For most bookings, you can cancel within 24 hours of purchase for a full refund if the booking was made at least 7 days before departure. This applies to all fare types, including non-refundable tickets.
Cancellations After 24 Hours
Non-Refundable Tickets (e.g., Basic, Standard, Discount fares):
- Cancellations after the 24-hour window may incur a fee, which varies based on fare type, route, and time of cancellation. Fees typically range from $100–$150 for international flights, though some sources mention up to $200 depending on the ticket.
- Refunds, if applicable, may be issued as travel credits after deducting the cancellation fee, but some tickets may be non-refundable entirely.
- No-show without prior cancellation may result in the ticket losing all value, and no refund or credit will be issued.
Refundable Tickets (e.g., Flex fares):
- These offer greater flexibility, with full or partial refunds possible, minus a service fee in some cases.
- Check fare rules during booking, as restrictions vary.
Special Circumstances:
- In cases of medical emergencies or bereavement, China Airlines may waive cancellation fees or offer refunds/credits, subject to documentation (e.g., medical certificates, death certificates). Contact customer service for case-by-case review.
Cancellations by China Airlines
- If China Airlines cancels your flight due to technical issues, weather, or other reasons, they will:
- Rebook you on the next available flight at no additional cost.
- Offer a full refund for the affected flight segments.
- Provide amenities like meals, refreshments, or hotel accommodations if necessary, per their Contingency Plan for disruptions.
- For cancellations with less than 14 days’ notice, you may be eligible for compensation up to $650 per person under UK/EU regulations (if departing from a UK/EU airport) or $775 for U.S. flights delayed 1–4 hours due to oversales, unless extraordinary circumstances (e.g., weather, air traffic control strikes) apply.
How to Cancel
By Phone:
- Call China Airlines’ customer service at +1-877-240-6770 (Taiwan) or +1-877-240-6770 (U.S.) for assistance. A small service fee may apply.
In-Person:
- Visit a China Airlines ticket counter or kiosk at the airport. An executive will assist with cancellation and refund eligibility, though a service fee may apply.
Through Travel Agencies:
- If booked through a travel agency, contact them directly to handle cancellations, as the process may differ.
Refunds
Processing Time:
- Credit card refunds are processed within 7 business days, but the actual credit may depend on the card issuer’s policies.
- Cash or check refunds are processed within 20 business days.
Eligibility:
- Full refunds are available for cancellations within the 24/48-hour risk-free period or if China Airlines cancels the flight.
- For non-refundable tickets, refunds may be limited to taxes or issued as travel credits after deducting fees.
- Additional baggage fees are fully refundable, but seat selection fees are not automatically refunded.
Process:
- Submit refund requests via the online form on China Airlines’ website or contact customer service with your ticket, itinerary, and payment details.
Flight Changes
- Flex Fares: Allow free changes without a fee, though fare differences may apply.
- Other Fares: Changes may incur fees, and you’ll need to pay any fare difference. Check fare rules at booking.
- Changes must be made through the booking source (e.g., China Airlines’ website or the travel agency).
Compensation for Delays or Cancellations
- If a flight is delayed by 3+ hours or canceled with less than 14 days’ notice, you may be eligible for compensation up to £520/€600 under UK/EU regulations (for flights departing from UK/EU airports) or $775 for U.S. flights, unless caused by extraordinary circumstances.
- Compensation is not available if you accept a replacement flight with similar departure/arrival times or if you voluntarily cancel your flight.
Important Notes
- Fare Rules: Always review the terms and conditions at booking, as they outline specific cancellation fees and refund eligibility. These are available during the purchase process on China Airlines’ website.
- Dynasty Flyer Program: If you’re a member, check how cancellations affect mileage accrual or redemption.
- No-Show Policy: Failing to cancel before departure may result in forfeiture of the ticket’s value, especially for non-refundable fares.
- Flight Status Notifications: Subscribe to China Airlines’ flight notification service for real-time updates on cancellations or delays. Notifications are sent within 30 minutes of confirmed irregularities for flights departing within 7 days.
