Iberia Airlines’ cancellation policy depends on the ticket type, fare conditions, and timing of the cancellation. Below is a concise overview based on the latest available information:
24-Hour Cancellation Policy:
- For flights to/from the United States booked at least 7 days before departure, you can cancel within 24 hours of purchase for a full refund, including taxes and fees, without penalty. This applies to most fare types, except group bookings and award tickets.
- Outside this window, or for non-U.S. routes, cancellations may incur fees unless the ticket is fully refundable.
Involuntary Cancellations (Iberia-initiated):
- If Iberia cancels your flight, delays it by 5+ hours, or you miss a connection due to their delay, you’re entitled to:
- A full refund (cash or original payment method) or a travel voucher.
- An alternative flight to your destination as soon as possible or at your convenience.
- Under EU Regulation EC 261/2004, for flights departing from or landing in the EU (with Iberia headquartered in the EU), you may receive compensation of €250–€600 if:
- The cancellation is less than 14 days before departure, and no suitable alternative flight is offered (arriving close to the original time).
- The reason isn’t “extraordinary circumstances” (e.g., weather, strikes, or airport incidents).
- Compensation can be claimed via Iberia’s website, booking office, or services like Flightright.
Voluntary Cancellations (Passenger-initiated):
- Refundable Tickets: Can be canceled anytime before departure for a full refund to the original payment method, minus a management fee (non-refundable).
- Non-Refundable Tickets: Typically don’t allow refunds unless canceled within the 24-hour window (for U.S. routes). Otherwise, you may receive a travel voucher (valid 12 months) after paying a cancellation fee, depending on fare rules.
- Flexible Ticket Option: If purchased, allows cancellations with a refund (minus fees) or changes without penalty.
- Cancellation fees vary by fare type and route, e.g.:
- Flexible Economy: €60 per passenger per one-way flight.
- Business Plus: €120 per passenger.
- Business Club: €250 per passenger.
- Fees are charged per passenger and segment. Check fare conditions in your booking confirmation or “Manage Your Booking” on Iberia’s website.
Avios (Award) Tickets:
- Cannot be canceled online; you must call Iberia’s customer service. A fee (e.g., ~$40 USD) may apply, and refunds of Avios and taxes may take weeks. Ensure payment is processed during the call to avoid delays.
- Refunds for Avios tickets on non-Iberia Group airlines (e.g., American Airlines) may be restricted.
How to Cancel:
- Phone: Call +1-877-240-6770. Be prepared for potential long wait times.
- Third-Party Bookings: Contact the travel agency or booking platform directly (e.g., Alternative Airlines for cancellations within 24 hours).
- Refunds (if eligible) are processed within 7 business days for credit cards or 20 days for other methods.
Special Circumstances:
- COVID-19 or Health Issues: If unable to travel due to COVID-19 restrictions, quarantine, or a close relative’s death (spouse, parent, child, in-law), you may qualify for a voucher or refund. Submit medical certificates to [email protected] or via “Manage Your Booking.”
- Flight Delays: If a delay exceeds 3 hours at your destination, you may claim compensation under EC 261 (same as cancellations) and receive free meals, calls, or accommodation if delayed overnight.
Additional Notes:
- Management fees for ticket purchases are non-refundable unless the cancellation is due to Iberia’s fault (e.g., delay or cancellation).
- Vouchers issued for cancellations are valid for 12 months, non-extendable, and can’t be used for Air Shuttle, flight+hotel, or full Avios purchases.
- For code-share flights (e.g., operated by American Airlines), baggage and refund rules may follow the operating airline’s policies.
