Air India Express Cancellation & Change Policy (2026)
Change or cancellations are permitted free of charge for up to 24 hours from the time of booking, provided the change or cancellation is done up to 7 days prior to departure.
Have a question about Air India Express cancellation policy?
Talk to an ExpertPage updated: August 2026
24-Hour Rule
Yes — free cancellation within 24 hours of booking. Change or cancellations are permitted free of charge for up to 24 hours from the time of booking, provided the change or cancellation is done up to 7 days prior to departure.
Cancellation Fees
| Fare Class | Fee |
|---|---|
| Basic Economy | Taxes Refundable Only (Lite Fare) |
| Main Cabin | INR 4300 (Value Fare) |
| Premium | INR 4300 |
| Business | INR 4300 |
Change Fees
| Fare Class | Fee |
|---|---|
| Basic Economy | INR 3000 (Lite Fare) |
| Main Cabin | INR 3000 (Value Fare) |
| Premium | INR 3000 |
| Business | INR 3000 |
Refund Method
Refunds are processed to the original mode of payment. A refund fee may apply.
Same-Day Change
Fly Ahead service available for INR 1500.
No-Show Policy
If you do not board the flight, you will only be entitled to an airport tax refund.
If Air India Express Cancels Your Flight
When an airline cancels or significantly changes your flight, U.S. Department of Transportation regulations require the airline to provide a full refund to the original form of payment — including ticket price, taxes, fees, and any paid extras — regardless of fare type.
Under DOT rules, a "significant change" includes: arrival delayed 3+ hours (domestic) or 6+ hours (international), a change in departure or arrival airport, additional connections, or an involuntary downgrade to a lower class of service.
The refund must be issued automatically within 7 business days for credit card purchases or 20 calendar days for other payment methods. Airlines may offer travel credits or vouchers as an alternative, but must inform you of your right to a cash refund. You are not required to accept a voucher.
Source: U.S. Department of Transportation, Aviation Consumer Protection — Refunds (transportation.gov/individuals/aviation-consumer-protection/refunds, last updated November 7, 2025).
How to Cancel
- Visit the Air India Express website or app.
- Go to 'Manage My Booking' or use the Tia chatbot.
- Enter your PNR and last name.
- Select the cancellation option and follow the prompts to process your refund.
Tips
- Cancel at least 2 hours before departure to be eligible for a refund (minus fees).
- Lite fares are non-refundable except for taxes.
- Consider the Xpress Flex fare for unlimited free date changes.
- Use the Tia chatbot on WhatsApp for quick assistance with cancellations.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is Air India Express cancellation policy?
- Air India Express offers free cancellation within 24 hours of booking, plus fare-class-based fees after that window closes. Refund method: Refunds are processed to the original mode of payment. A refund fee may apply.
- Can I cancel a Air India Express flight for free?
- Yes — Change or cancellations are permitted free of charge for up to 24 hours from the time of booking, provided the change or cancellation is done up to 7 days prior to departure.
- What is Air India Express cancellation policy after 24 hours?
- Once the 24-hour window expires, fees apply by fare class. Main Cabin: INR 4300 (Value Fare). Basic Economy: Taxes Refundable Only (Lite Fare). Premium: INR 4300.
- What is Air India Express's change fee?
- Main Cabin: INR 3000 (Value Fare). Basic Economy: INR 3000 (Lite Fare).
- How do I get a refund from Air India Express?
- Refunds are processed to the original mode of payment. A refund fee may apply.
- What happens if I no-show on Air India Express?
- If you do not board the flight, you will only be entitled to an airport tax refund.