Malaysia Airlines Cancellation Policy (2026)

Standard fare rules apply for most routes. Tickets booked for flights to/from certain jurisdictions may have specific cooling-off periods as mandated by local law.

Have a question about Malaysia Airlines cancellation policy?

Talk to an Expert

Page updated: August 2026

24-Hour Rule

Limited 24-hour cancellation. Standard fare rules apply for most routes. Tickets booked for flights to/from certain jurisdictions may have specific cooling-off periods as mandated by local law.

Cancellation Fees

Fare ClassFee
Basic EconomyEconomy Lite: Non-refundable. Economy Basic: Cancellation permitted with a fee.
Main CabinEconomy Flex: Cancellation permitted with a fee (or free depending on route).
PremiumBusiness Basic: Cancellation permitted with a fee. Business Flex: Free cancellation.
BusinessBusiness Suite: Free cancellation.

Change Fees

Fare ClassFee
Basic EconomyEconomy Lite: Changes permitted with a fee plus fare difference. Economy Basic: Changes permitted with a fee plus fare difference.
Main CabinEconomy Flex: Unlimited free changes (fare difference applies).
PremiumBusiness Basic: Changes permitted with a fee. Business Flex: Free changes.
BusinessBusiness Suite: Free changes.

Refund Method

Refunds are processed to the original form of payment. Non-refundable tickets may only receive a refund of unused government taxes.

Same-Day Change

Same-day changes are generally not permitted for lower fare classes; Flex fares may allow earlier flights on the same day subject to availability.

No-Show Policy

No-show fees apply. If you fail to board your flight, the ticket may be forfeited or subject to a high no-show fee plus change/cancellation fees.

If Malaysia Airlines 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 your account on the Malaysia Airlines website or app.
  2. Go to 'Manage Booking' and enter your booking reference and last name.
  3. Select the flight you wish to cancel and review the fare rules and refund amount.
  4. Confirm the cancellation and keep the confirmation email for your records.

Tips

  • Book Economy Flex if you anticipate needing to change or cancel your flight.
  • Always cancel before the flight's departure to avoid hefty no-show fees.
  • If your flight is cancelled by the airline, you are entitled to a full refund or rebooking.
  • Check if your travel insurance covers cancellation for unforeseen circumstances.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Malaysia Airlines cancellation policy?
Malaysia Airlines does not offer a 24-hour free cancellation window. All cancellations are subject to fare-class-based fees from the moment of booking. Refund method: Refunds are processed to the original form of payment. Non-refundable tickets may only receive a refund of unused government taxes.
Can I cancel a Malaysia Airlines flight for free?
No — Malaysia Airlines does not provide a free cancellation period. Standard fare rules apply for most routes. Tickets booked for flights to/from certain jurisdictions may have specific cooling-off periods as mandated by local law.
What is Malaysia Airlines cancellation fee?
Fees vary by fare class. Basic Economy: Economy Lite: Non-refundable. Economy Basic: Cancellation permitted with a fee.. Main Cabin: Economy Flex: Cancellation permitted with a fee (or free depending on route).. Premium: Business Basic: Cancellation permitted with a fee. Business Flex: Free cancellation..
What is Malaysia Airlines's change fee?
Main Cabin: Economy Flex: Unlimited free changes (fare difference applies).. Basic Economy: Economy Lite: Changes permitted with a fee plus fare difference. Economy Basic: Changes permitted with a fee plus fare difference..
How do I get a refund from Malaysia Airlines?
Refunds are processed to the original form of payment. Non-refundable tickets may only receive a refund of unused government taxes.
What happens if I no-show on Malaysia Airlines?
No-show fees apply. If you fail to board your flight, the ticket may be forfeited or subject to a high no-show fee plus change/cancellation fees.