Overview
Ethiopian Airlines offers a flexible flight change policy to accommodate passengers' changing travel plans. Modifications to flight dates, times, or destinations can be made online, through the mobile app, via customer service, or at the airport, subject to fare rules, ticket type, and availability. The policy is designed to be customer-friendly, ensuring a straightforward process for altering bookings.
Key Points of the Policy
- Eligibility for Changes: Passengers can modify flight dates, times, or destinations up to two hours before departure for international flights and one hour for domestic flights, subject to ticket conditions and availability. Changes after online check-in are possible through the reservation center.
- Free Change Window: One free change is allowed within 24 hours of booking if the departure is at least seven days away, though fare differences may apply. This applies to bookings made directly with Ethiopian Airlines.
- Change Fees: After the free change window, fees vary based on fare type, route, and timing. Flexible fares may have lower or no fees, while promotional or discounted tickets often have stricter conditions and higher fees. A no-show fee may apply for changes requested on or after the flight date.
- Fare Differences: If the new flight has a higher fare, passengers must pay the difference. If the new fare is lower, a travel credit may be issued for future use, but no cash refund is provided for the difference.
- Name Changes: Minor name corrections are permitted with documentation, such as for marriage or legal reasons, but full name transfers are not allowed. Fees may apply for name changes.
- Open Ticket Option: Tickets can be kept open for use within one year from issuance, providing flexibility for future travel plans.
- Special Circumstances: For medical emergencies or bereavement, passengers may request fee waivers or vouchers with valid documentation, subject to airline approval.
- Airline-Initiated Changes: If Ethiopian Airlines delays a flight by more than five hours or cancels it, passengers can change to another flight without penalty or request a refund, subject to applicable regulations.
How to Change a Flight
Passengers can modify bookings through the following methods:
- Online: Visit the Manage Booking section on the Ethiopian Airlines website or mobile app, enter the booking reference and last name, select new flight options, and pay any fees or fare differences. This is the most cost-effective method.
- Customer Service: Contact the global call center or use digital channels like social media for assistance, especially for complex changes or third-party bookings.
- At the Airport: Visit an Ethiopian Airlines ticket counter for in-person support, ensuring changes are made before check-in deadlines.
Tips for a Smooth Experience
- Make changes early to avoid higher fees and secure availability.
- Review fare rules at booking to understand change restrictions.
- Ensure all details are accurate when submitting change requests, as they are non-reversible once processed.
- For third-party bookings, contact the travel agent directly, as their terms may apply.
- Consider purchasing flexible fare options for greater change flexibility.
- Keep booking references and travel documents handy for faster processing.
Important Notes
Changes to bookings involving partner airlines are subject to the most restrictive fare rules. For flights to or from specific regions, local regulations, such as EU or US consumer protection laws, may apply, offering additional rights. Always use official Ethiopian Airlines channels for modifications to avoid complications. For special cases, such as travel to or from Tel Aviv, specific rules may allow free changes or refunds without fees, subject to conditions.
