Plans changed? Need to cancel your flight? Here's exactly how to get your refund from every major Indian airline, including timelines, charges, and the fastest claim process.
Cancellation Charges by Airline
Note: If the airline cancels YOUR flight, you get a FULL refund with NO charges. These charges only apply when YOU cancel.
Step-by-Step: Cancel & Get Refund
Option 1: Cancel Online (Fastest)
- Go to the airline's website → "Manage Booking"
- Enter your PNR and last name
- Click "Cancel Booking"
- Choose refund type: Original payment method (takes 7-30 days) or Airline credit (instant)
- Confirm cancellation
Option 2: Call the Airline
- IndiGo: 0124-6173838
- Air India: 1860-233-1407
- SpiceJet: 0124-4983410
- Akasa Air: 9227-222-122
When You Get a FULL Refund
- Airline cancels your flight — full refund, no charges
- Schedule change of 2+ hours — you can request full refund
- Double booking error — airline must refund
- Medical emergency — most airlines waive charges with medical certificate
Refund Timeline
- Credit card refund: 7-14 business days
- Debit card/UPI refund: 7-21 business days
- Airline credit: Instant — use within 1 year
- If delayed beyond 30 days: File complaint on AirSewa (airsewa.gov.in)
Smart Tips
- Cancel ASAP: The earlier you cancel, the lower the charges
- Book refundable fares: Pay Rs. 500-1,000 more for "Flexi" or "Saver" — cancellation is cheaper or free
- Date change vs cancel: Changing your date (Rs. 2,250-3,000) is often better than cancelling and rebooking
- Booked via OTA? Cancel on the OTA's website (MakeMyTrip, Cleartrip, etc.) — they have their OWN charges on top of airline charges