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Ethiopian Airlines Cancellation & Change Policy (2026)

Last updated: May 1, 2026

Quick Answer

Ethiopian Airlines offers free cancellation within 24 hours of booking. After that, Main Cabin and above: economy semi-flex/flex: cancellations permitted with a fee, or fully refundable depending on the specific fare rules.. Basic Economy: economy promo: non-refundable or high cancellation fee applies..

24-Hour Free Cancellation

For flights to or from the United States, you can cancel your reservation within 24 hours of booking for a full refund without penalty, provided the booking was made at least 7 days before departure.

Change Fees by Fare Class

Fare ClassChange Fee
basic EconomyEconomy Promo: Changes permitted with a fee (typically $100-$200 depending on route) plus fare difference.
main CabinEconomy Semi-Flex/Flex: Changes permitted, often free or with a lower fee, plus fare difference.
premiumNot applicable (Ethiopian does not have a standard Premium Economy class).
businessCloud Nine (Business): Changes generally permitted free of charge, subject to fare difference.

Cancellation Fees & Refund Type

Fare ClassCancellation Policy
basic EconomyEconomy Promo: Non-refundable or high cancellation fee applies.
main CabinEconomy Semi-Flex/Flex: Cancellations permitted with a fee, or fully refundable depending on the specific fare rules.
premiumNot applicable.
businessCloud Nine (Business): Generally refundable, sometimes with a small administrative fee.

How Refunds Work

Refunds are processed to the original form of payment. Non-refundable tickets may be eligible for travel vouchers.

Same-Day Flight Change

Same-day flight changes may be permitted on certain routes for a fee, subject to availability.

No-Show Policy

A no-show fee applies if you fail to cancel your booking before departure. The ticket may lose its value depending on the fare conditions.

How to Cancel Your Ethiopian Airlines Flight

  1. 1Visit the Ethiopian Airlines website and navigate to 'Manage Booking'.
  2. 2Enter your booking reference and last name to access your reservation.
  3. 3Select the option to cancel your flight and review any applicable fees or refund amounts.
  4. 4Confirm the cancellation and retain the confirmation email for your records.

Expert Tips

💡 Always check the specific fare rules attached to your ticket before purchasing, as fees vary significantly by route and fare type.

💡 If your flight is significantly delayed or canceled by the airline, you are entitled to a full refund regardless of the fare type.

💡 Consider purchasing travel insurance to cover unexpected cancellations.

💡 For tickets booked through a travel agency, you must contact the agency directly to process cancellations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I cancel a Ethiopian Airlines flight for free?
Yes — For flights to or from the United States, you can cancel your reservation within 24 hours of booking for a full refund without penalty, provided the booking was made at least 7 days before departure. Economy Semi-Flex/Flex: Cancellations permitted with a fee, or fully refundable depending on the specific fare rules.
What is Ethiopian Airlines's change fee?
Main Cabin: Economy Semi-Flex/Flex: Changes permitted, often free or with a lower fee, plus fare difference.. Basic Economy: Economy Promo: Changes permitted with a fee (typically $100-$200 depending on route) plus fare difference..
How do I get a refund from Ethiopian Airlines?
Refunds are processed to the original form of payment. Non-refundable tickets may be eligible for travel vouchers.
What happens if I no-show on Ethiopian Airlines?
A no-show fee applies if you fail to cancel your booking before departure. The ticket may lose its value depending on the fare conditions.

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