Tianjin Airlines (GS), a Chinese regional airline, has a cancellation policy that offers some flexibility but varies by fare type, booking channel, and timing. Below is a concise overview based on the latest information from their official website.
24-Hour Risk-Free Cancellation:
- You can cancel any Tianjin Airlines flight within 24 hours of booking for a full refund to the original payment method, provided the flight departs at least 7 days (168 hours) later, per U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) and Airlines Reporting Corporation (ARC) rules for U.S. bookings. This applies to both refundable and non-refundable fares booked directly through tianjin-air.com, the Tianjin Airlines reservation portal, or their customer service.
- No cancellation fees apply within this period, and refunds are credited within 7–10 business days to the original payment method. Delays up to 60 days have been reported on Tripadvisor.
- Exceptions: The 24-hour policy does not apply to group bookings (10+ passengers), travel credits, mileage club bookings, or certain promotional fares.
After 24 Hours:
- Refundable Fares: Fully refundable tickets can be canceled without a fee, with the full amount refunded to the original payment method, provided the cancellation is made at least 2 hours before departure. Specific fare rules apply, so check at booking.
- Non-Refundable Fares: Cancellations after 24 hours are subject to a fee, typically ranging from $50–$200 USD, depending on fare type, route, and timing. For cancellations within 7 days of travel, fees may be higher, and if the fee exceeds the ticket value, no refund or credit is issued.
- No-Show Policy: Failing to cancel at least 2 hours before departure forfeits the entire ticket value, with no refund or credit, except for taxes in some cases.
- Used Segments: Cancellations are not applicable for segments already flown. Only unused portions of the ticket are eligible for refunds or credits, minus fees.
- Codeshare Flights: For flights operated by other airlines (e.g., Hainan Airlines), the most restrictive fare rules apply, which may differ from Tianjin’s policy.
Cancellation Process:
- Phone: Call Tianjin Airlines’ customer service at +1-877-240-6770. Have your reservation number ready. A service fee may apply for phone cancellations.
- In-Person: Cancel at a Tianjin Airlines airport ticket counter or kiosk, suitable for last-minute changes.
- Email: For non-urgent cancellations, contact Tianjin Airlines via their customer service email listed on tianjin-air.com.
Special Circumstances:
- Airline-Canceled Flights:
- If Tianjin Airlines cancels a flight due to reasons within their control (e.g., technical issues), you’re entitled to a full refund (including non-refunded fares), rebooking on the next available flight, or a voucher. The airline will notify you via email or phone if valid contact information is provided. If no flight is available, Tianjin may arrange accommodation near the airport.
- For EU departures (e.g., London Heathrow), EC 261/2004 applies, offering €250–€600 compensation for cancellations with less than 14 days’ notice, unless due to extraordinary circumstances (e.g., weather, air traffic control strikes). Compensation varies by distance: €250 (≤1,500 km), €400 (1,500–3,500 km), €600 (>3,500 km). Non-EU flights (e.g., Tianjin to Singapore) are not covered by EC 261.
- Delays: For delays over 3 hours at the destination due to Tianjin’s control on EU departures, you may cancel for a refund or claim EC 261 compensation (€250–€600). Recent data shows 27 flights delayed 3+ hours in a 24-hour period.
- Medical or Extenuating Circumstances: Refunds may be granted for visa denials (with embassy proof) or emergencies (e.g., illness, death) with documentation. Submit requests via the airline’s customer service.
- Weather-Related Cancellations: For disruptions like cold waves (noted by Hainan Airlines Group, including Tianjin), fee-free refunds or rebooking are offered, but no compensation is provided. Check tianjin-air.com for advisories.
