Qatar Airways Cancellation & Change Policy (2026)
For flights to or from the US, you can hold a reservation at the quoted fare without payment, or cancel without penalty within 24 hours of booking, provided the reservation is made one week or more prior to a flight's departure.
Have a question about Qatar Airways cancellation policy?
Talk to an ExpertPage updated: August 2026
24-Hour Rule
Yes — free cancellation within 24 hours of booking. For flights to or from the US, you can hold a reservation at the quoted fare without payment, or cancel without penalty within 24 hours of booking, provided the reservation is made one week or more prior to a flight's departure.
Cancellation Fees
| Fare Class | Fee |
|---|---|
| Basic Economy | Classic fares: Cancellations permitted for a high fee, or non-refundable depending on the specific route. |
| Main Cabin | Convenience fares: Cancellations permitted for a fee. |
| Premium | Comfort fares: Cancellations permitted for a low fee or free. |
| Business | Elite/Business fares: Cancellations are free of charge. |
Change Fees
| Fare Class | Fee |
|---|---|
| Basic Economy | Classic fares: Changes permitted for a fee (typically $150-$200 depending on route). |
| Main Cabin | Convenience fares: Changes permitted for a lower fee or free depending on the route. |
| Premium | Comfort fares: Changes are generally free of charge. |
| Business | Elite/Business fares: Changes are free of charge. |
Refund Method
Refunds are processed to the original form of payment or as a travel voucher, depending on the fare rules.
Same-Day Change
Same-day changes are generally not permitted for lower fare classes without paying the fare difference and change fees.
No-Show Policy
A strict no-show fee applies if you fail to cancel or change your ticket before departure. The ticket may lose its value.
If Qatar 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
- Go to the Qatar Airways website and click on 'Manage Booking'.
- Enter your booking reference (PNR) and last name.
- Select the flight you wish to cancel and choose the cancellation option.
- Review any applicable fees and confirm the cancellation to receive your refund or voucher.
Tips
- Always check the specific fare rules (Classic, Convenience, Comfort, Elite) before booking.
- If you need flexibility, opt for a Comfort or Elite fare.
- Cancel your flight before departure to avoid hefty no-show fees.
- For US flights, take advantage of the 24-hour hold or cancellation policy.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is Qatar Airways cancellation policy?
- Qatar Airways 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 form of payment or as a travel voucher, depending on the fare rules.
- Can I cancel a Qatar Airways flight for free?
- Yes — For flights to or from the US, you can hold a reservation at the quoted fare without payment, or cancel without penalty within 24 hours of booking, provided the reservation is made one week or more prior to a flight's departure.
- What is Qatar Airways cancellation policy after 24 hours?
- Once the 24-hour window expires, fees apply by fare class. Main Cabin: Convenience fares: Cancellations permitted for a fee.. Basic Economy: Classic fares: Cancellations permitted for a high fee, or non-refundable depending on the specific route.. Premium: Comfort fares: Cancellations permitted for a low fee or free..
- What is Qatar Airways's change fee?
- Main Cabin: Convenience fares: Changes permitted for a lower fee or free depending on the route.. Basic Economy: Classic fares: Changes permitted for a fee (typically $150-$200 depending on route)..
- How do I get a refund from Qatar Airways?
- Refunds are processed to the original form of payment or as a travel voucher, depending on the fare rules.
- What happens if I no-show on Qatar Airways?
- A strict no-show fee applies if you fail to cancel or change your ticket before departure. The ticket may lose its value.