Kenya Airways Cancellation Policy: Rules & Refund Fees Explained
Customers who book direct on kenya-airways.com for flights originating from the US have up to 24 hours after booking to cancel for any reason and receive a full refund.
Have a question about Kenya Airways cancellation policy?
Talk to an ExpertPage updated: August 2026
24-Hour Rule
Yes — free cancellation within 24 hours of booking. Customers who book direct on kenya-airways.com for flights originating from the US have up to 24 hours after booking to cancel for any reason and receive a full refund.
Cancellation Fees
| Fare Class | Fee |
|---|---|
| Basic Economy | USD 100 to USD 300 depending on route and fare rules |
| Main Cabin | USD 100 to USD 300 depending on route and fare rules |
| Premium | USD 100 to USD 300 depending on route and fare rules |
| Business | USD 100 to USD 300 depending on route and fare rules |
Change Fees
| Fare Class | Fee |
|---|---|
| Basic Economy | USD 100 to USD 300 depending on route and fare rules |
| Main Cabin | USD 100 to USD 300 depending on route and fare rules |
| Premium | USD 100 to USD 300 depending on route and fare rules |
| Business | USD 100 to USD 300 depending on route and fare rules |
Refund Method
Refunds for eligible tickets are issued within 21-30 business days for credit/debit card purchases to the original form of payment.
Same-Day Change
Subject to availability and fare difference, change fees apply.
No-Show Policy
No-show fees apply and vary by fare type and route. The remaining itinerary may be cancelled.
If Kenya 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
- Visit the Kenya Airways website and go to 'Manage Booking'.
- Enter your booking reference number and last name.
- Select the option to cancel your flight.
- Submit the online refund form if eligible for a refund.
Tips
- Always check the specific fare rules of your ticket before cancelling.
- If you booked through a travel agent, you must contact them directly to cancel.
- For US flights, take advantage of the 24-hour risk-free cancellation policy.
- Submit your refund request online for faster processing.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is Kenya Airways cancellation policy?
- Kenya Airways offers free cancellation within 24 hours of booking, plus fare-class-based fees after that window closes. Refund method: Refunds for eligible tickets are issued within 21-30 business days for credit/debit card purchases to the original form of payment.
- Can I cancel a Kenya Airways flight for free?
- Yes — Customers who book direct on kenya-airways.com for flights originating from the US have up to 24 hours after booking to cancel for any reason and receive a full refund.
- What is Kenya Airways cancellation policy after 24 hours?
- Once the 24-hour window expires, fees apply by fare class. Main Cabin: USD 100 to USD 300 depending on route and fare rules. Basic Economy: USD 100 to USD 300 depending on route and fare rules. Premium: USD 100 to USD 300 depending on route and fare rules.
- Does Kenya Airways 24-hour cancellation apply to agency bookings?
- Tickets booked through third-party travel agencies (including consolidators) may not qualify for Kenya Airways's 24-hour free cancellation. The rule typically applies only to direct bookings on the airline's own website or app. Check your specific fare rules or contact Kenya Airways directly to confirm.
- What is Kenya Airways's change fee?
- Main Cabin: USD 100 to USD 300 depending on route and fare rules. Basic Economy: USD 100 to USD 300 depending on route and fare rules.
- How do I get a refund from Kenya Airways?
- Refunds for eligible tickets are issued within 21-30 business days for credit/debit card purchases to the original form of payment.
- What happens if I no-show on Kenya Airways?
- No-show fees apply and vary by fare type and route. The remaining itinerary may be cancelled.