China Southern Airlines Missed Flight Policy

Overview

China Southern 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, U.S. DOT rules for flights to/from the U.S., and the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) regulations.

Key Policy Details

• No-Show Policy: If you miss your flight without canceling in advance, it is considered a "no-show." Non-refundable tickets 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, unless otherwise specified in fare rules.
• 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 (typically $75-$200 USD, depending on 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 one year from the ticket’s issue date. Refunds can be processed online for tickets purchased directly from China Southern Airlines or by contacting customer service.
• 24-Hour Cancellation Policy: For bookings made directly with China Southern 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 Southern Airlines-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 (e.g., aircraft maintenance, flight allocation, or crew issues), you may be eligible for compensation of up to €600 under EU/UK Regulation 261/2004 for applicable flights, or up to $775 USD for U.S. flights delayed 1-4 hours due to overbooking.
• Assistance for Delays: For delays of 4+ hours within the airline’s control, China Southern provides meal vouchers and communication access (e.g., two phone calls or emails). For connection times exceeding 8 hours due to a missed connection caused by the airline, free accommodation and transport are provided. If delays are due to extraordinary circumstances (e.g., weather, air traffic control), assistance is provided at the passenger’s cost.
• Illness or Extenuating Circumstances: If you miss a flight due to illness, you may request a refund by providing medical documentation (e.g., medical certificate, hospital records) from a recognized hospital, proving unfitness to travel. Documentation must be submitted before departure to a China Southern Airlines ticket office or via customer service.
• Extraordinary Circumstances: No compensation is provided for missed flights due to circumstances beyond the airline’s control, such as weather, air traffic control, or security issues. However, the airline will assist with rebooking or provide a refund for unused taxes and fees.

Steps to Take if You Miss Your Flight

• Contact China Southern 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 Southern 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.