Singapore Airlines has a structured cancellation policy that varies by fare type, booking channel, and timing. Below is a concise overview based on the latest available information from their official website and other reliable sources:
24-Hour Risk-Free Cancellation:
- For tickets purchased directly from Singapore Airlines (via singaporeair.com or their offices), you can cancel within 24 hours of booking without penalty, provided the booking was made at least 7 days before departure. This applies to all fare types, including flights to/from the USA, as per the Airlines Reporting Corporation (ARC) rules. Refunds are credited to the original payment method.
After 24 Hours:
- Refundable Tickets: Can be canceled online or via Singapore Airlines’ contact center for a full refund, but cancellation fees may apply (e.g., $50-$75 for KrisFlyer members, depending on fare class—Saver or Advantage).
- Non-Refundable Tickets: Only refundable taxes are returned, with no refund for the fare itself. Promotional tickets are typically non-refundable.
- No-Show Fees: If you fail to cancel before departure, no-show fees apply: $100 for Economy, $200 for Premium Economy, and $300 for Business/First Class. For award tickets, a redeposit fee ($50-$75) plus the no-show fee may apply if miles are to be redeposited.
- Cancellations must be made before the flight’s departure, as no refunds are issued post-departure. Partial cancellations (e.g., one leg of a multi-city itinerary) are not allowed; the entire itinerary must be canceled, subject to fare conditions.
Refunds:
- Refunds for eligible tickets are processed within 7 business days for credit card payments or 20 business days for cash/check payments, credited to the original payment method. Processing may take up to 6 weeks due to bank delays.
- For unused ancillary services (e.g., baggage, seats) due to cancellations, refunds are issued to the original payment method.
- No refunds are provided for expired tickets or after the ticket’s validity period (typically one year).
Special Circumstances:
- Airline-Canceled Flights: If Singapore Airlines cancels your flight, you’re entitled to a full refund (including non-refundable fares) or rebooking without fees. You may also receive meals, accommodation, or transport, depending on the delay.
- Significant Delays: For delays exceeding 2-4 hours (depending on flight distance), you may cancel and request a refund or receive assistance (e.g., meals, calls). For EU departures, EC 261/2004 applies, offering up to €600 in compensation for cancellations/delays over 3 hours, unless caused by extraordinary circumstances (e.g., weather, strikes).
- Medical Emergencies or Death: Refunds may be granted for serious illness or death of a passenger/close family member with supporting documentation, subject to fare conditions.
- COVID-19 Waivers: For tickets issued on or before March 15, 2020, with travel by March 31, 2021, passengers could convert unused tickets to flight credits (with SGD 75-500 bonuses) or request fee-free refunds. This policy has expired, but similar waivers may apply during specific disruptions—check singaporeair.com for updates.
