China Eastern Airlines Missed Flight Policy

Overview

China Eastern Airlines’ 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 is governed by fare rules, ticket type, and regulations such as EU/UK Regulation 261/2004 for flights departing from Europe or the UK, and U.S. DOT rules for flights to/from the U.S.

Key Policy Details

• No-Show Policy: If you miss your flight without canceling in advance, it is considered a "no-show." Non-refundable tickets marked "NON-REF" lose their value, but you may request a refund for unused taxes and fees (excluding fuel surcharges). The entire itinerary may be canceled as tickets must be used in sequence.
• Non-Refundable Tickets: For non-refundable tickets, 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. A handling charge may apply for changes made through third-party agents.
• Refundable Tickets: Refundable tickets 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 can be requested online or by mailing the flight purchase invoice to China Eastern’s refund team in Shanghai.
• 24-Hour Cancellation Policy: For bookings made directly with China Eastern Airlines, 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 does not apply to optional charges like baggage fees.
• Missed Connections Due to Delays: If you miss a connecting flight due to a delay or cancellation of a China Eastern-operated flight within the same booking, the airline will rebook you on the next available flight at no additional cost. If the delay exceeds 3 hours at your final destination and is within the airline’s control, you may be eligible for compensation of up to €600 under EU/UK Regulation 261/2004 for applicable flights.
• Assistance for Delays: For delays of 2+ hours within the airline’s control, China Eastern provides meal vouchers and access to communication (e.g., two phone calls or emails). For overnight delays, accommodation and ground transportation are provided.
• Extraordinary Circumstances: No compensation is provided for missed flights due to extraordinary circumstances (e.g., weather, air traffic control, or strikes not involving airline staff).
• Illness or Extenuating Circumstances: If you miss a flight due to personal illness, you may request a refund by providing a certificate of diagnosis or medical records from a Grade II Class A hospital (or equivalent foreign medical facility) showing unfitness for travel. Documentation must be submitted before departure.

Steps to Take if You Miss Your Flight

• Contact China Eastern Airlines immediately via the website, mobile app, or airport customer service counter to discuss rebooking or refund options.
• Provide your booking reference and explain the reason for missing the flight to determine eligibility for rebooking, refunds, or tax refunds.
• Check your ticket’s fare rules to understand applicable fees, restrictions, or refund eligibility.
• Keep documentation (e.g., boarding passes, receipts, medical certificates) for any claims or expense reimbursements.

Additional Information

If China Eastern Airlines cancels or delays your flight by 3+ hours, you may choose a refund, rebooking, or compensation, depending on the circumstances. Refunds are processed within 20 days for cash/check payments or within two billing cycles for credit card payments. For EU/UK flights, compensation claims must be filed within the statute of limitations of the departure country. Always retain documentation for expenses incurred due to a missed flight.