Kuwait Airways’ cancellation policy offers flexibility for passengers, with rules varying by fare type, timing, and booking channel. Below is a concise overview based on available information:
24-Hour Cancellation Policy: You can cancel any flight within 24 hours of booking for a full refund without fees, provided the flight departs at least 7 days later (168 hours). This applies to all fare types, classes, and routes booked directly through Kuwait Airways’ website (www.kuwaitairways.com), app, or customer service, per U.S. Department of Transportation rules for U.S.-touching flights. This policy does not cover reward mile tickets or travel credit vouchers.
General Cancellation Rules:
- Refundable Fares: Can be canceled with no or minimal fees, depending on fare rules. Refunds are processed to the original payment method within 7–10 business days for credit card payments or longer for other methods.
- Non-Refundable Fares: Cancellations after the 24-hour window incur fees, and the remaining value (if any) is refunded to the original payment method after deducting penalties. Some sources mention a full refund if canceled 60 days prior to departure, though this is not consistently confirmed.
- Cancellation Fees:
- Domestic flights: Approximately $125 USD per passenger.
- International flights: Approximately $200 USD per passenger.
- Fees vary by route, fare type, and timing (higher closer to departure). Cancellations up to 1 hour before departure from Kuwait are allowed but incur a fee.
- Only unused ticket portions are refundable, and bookings with up to 8 flight segments and 8 passengers are eligible for online cancellations.
- Airport taxes and fees are refundable, but restricted fares may only refund these (about 15% of ticket value).
How to Cancel:
- Phone: Call +965 2434 5555 (Kuwait), +1-877-240-6770, or local numbers listed on the website. Have your booking or ticket number ready. A service fee may apply
- In-Person: Visit a Kuwait Airways ticket counter or kiosk at the airport, up to 3 hours before departure.
- Travel Agency Bookings: Contact the agency directly, as Kuwait Airways cannot process third-party cancellations. Additional fees may apply.
Airline-Caused Cancellations:
- If Kuwait Airways cancels a flight due to technical issues, weather, or other reasons, you’re entitled to a full refund or rebooking on the next available flight. If no flight is available, the airline may arrange accommodation.
- For EU/UK departures, EC 261/UK 261 regulations apply. If a flight is canceled with less than 14 days’ notice and the airline is at fault, you may claim €250–€600 compensation per person, plus a refund or rebooking. Care (e.g., meals, hotel) is provided for delays of 2+ hours. Compensation is not owed for extraordinary circumstances (e.g., weather, strikes).
Special Cases:
- Medical Emergencies or Death: Full refunds may be granted for the passenger or immediate family member’s death with valid documentation (e.g., death certificate). Medical emergencies may also qualify for fee waivers, subject to review.
- Natural Disasters: Exceptions may apply for disruptions like storms, with refunds or rebooking offered. Contact customer service promptly with documentation.
- Travel Insurance: Policies purchased at booking may cover cancellations for covered reasons (e.g., illness, emergencies), potentially offering full refunds
