Etihad Airways Cancellation Policy (2026)

24-Hour Rule

Yes — free cancellation within 24 hours of booking. For flights to or from the US booked at least 7 days before departure, you can cancel within 24 hours of booking for a full refund.

Cancellation Fees

Change Fees

Refund Method

Refunds are issued to the original form of payment or as Etihad Credit for future travel.

Same-Day Change

Permitted on certain higher fare classes or for Etihad Guest elite members, subject to availability.

No-Show Policy

No-show fees apply and are generally higher than standard change/cancellation fees. The remaining itinerary may be cancelled.

If Etihad Airways 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

1. Log in to 'Manage my booking' on the Etihad Airways website.
2. Enter your booking reference and last name.
3. Select the flight you wish to cancel and choose the cancellation option.
4. Review any applicable fees and confirm the cancellation to receive your refund or credit.

Tips

• Opt for Economy Choice Plus or Business Choice if you need maximum flexibility.
• Cancel at least 2 hours before departure to avoid hefty no-show fees.
• Consider converting your ticket to Etihad Credit if you plan to travel later, as it may offer more value.
• Check if your travel insurance covers the cancellation reason to claim non-refundable fees.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Etihad Airways cancellation policy?

Etihad Airways offers free cancellation within 24 hours of booking, plus fare-class-based fees after that window closes. Refund method: Refunds are issued to the original form of payment or as Etihad Credit for future travel.

Can I cancel a Etihad Airways flight for free?

Yes — For flights to or from the US booked at least 7 days before departure, you can cancel within 24 hours of booking for a full refund.

What is Etihad Airways cancellation policy after 24 hours?

Once the 24-hour window expires, fees apply by fare class. Main Cabin: Economy Choice: $150-$200; Economy Choice Plus: Free.. Basic Economy: Economy Sale: Non-refundable. Economy Value: $200-$300.. Premium: Premium Economy: Varies by fare type, often $150 or free..

What is Etihad Airways's change fee?

Main Cabin: Economy Choice: $100-$150; Economy Choice Plus: Free.. Basic Economy: Economy Sale/Value: $150-$200 depending on route..

How do I get a refund from Etihad Airways?

Refunds are issued to the original form of payment or as Etihad Credit for future travel.

What happens if I no-show on Etihad Airways?

No-show fees apply and are generally higher than standard change/cancellation fees. The remaining itinerary may be cancelled.