When travel plans shift unexpectedly, understanding the Air India Flight Change Fee Policy becomes essential. As one of India's leading international airlines, Air India offers travelers a structured yet flexible approach to altering flight bookings. Whether it's a change in dates, times, or destinations, knowing the nuances of this policy ensures a smoother travel experience.
Understanding Air India’s Flight Change Policy
Air India allows passengers to change flight bookings under specified terms and conditions. These changes are subject to availability and must adhere to fare rules set at the time of booking. Depending on the fare class and route, fees and fare differences may apply.
Key Features of Air India Flight Change Policy
Changes can be made up to 12 hours prior to scheduled departure for domestic flights and 24 hours prior for international flights.
Passengers must pay a change fee, which varies by cabin class, fare type, and route.
Any difference in fare between the original and the new booking must be paid.
Tickets booked via third parties or travel agents must be altered through the original booking channel.
Air India Flight Change Fee Breakdown
Air India applies different change fees depending on the fare category. These categories are broadly divided into Economy, Business, and First Class, and each comes with distinct terms for modifications.
1. Domestic Flights
Economy Class (Discounted Fare): Change fee ranges from INR 2,250 to INR 3,000, plus fare difference.
Business Class: Changes typically cost INR 1,500 to INR 2,500.
Full Fare Tickets: Often allow free changes if made well in advance.
2. International Flights
Economy Class: Change fees depending on destination.
Business First Class: Fees are typically USD 100–USD 250, with more flexibility for premium tickets.
All changes are subject to seat availability on the requested new flight. If the same booking class is not available, a higher fare might apply even within the same cabin class.
How to Change Your Air India Flight
Changing your flight with Air India is relatively simple, provided you follow the correct procedure:
Via Air India Website or Mobile App
Visit website
Go to the Manage Booking section.
Enter your booking reference (PNR) and last name.
Select the flight you want to change.
Follow the prompts to select a new flight, pay the fee and any fare difference.
Confirm the changes and receive an updated itinerary.
Through Customer Service
You can also reach out to Air India’s customer care (for domestic queries) or contact local international offices. Have your ticket and identification details ready.
Airport Ticketing Counters
For last-minute or urgent changes, visit an Air India airport counter. Representatives can guide you through the process, though not all requests can be accommodated close to departure.
Air India Flight Change Fee Waivers and Exceptions
In some cases, Air India may waive flight change fees, especially under the following scenarios:
COVID-19 or Force Majeure situations: Passengers were allowed one-time free changes during the pandemic and natural disasters.
Schedule Changes: If Air India reschedules or cancels your flight, you can typically change flights for free.
Medical Emergencies: Supporting documentation may qualify you for a fee waiver, subject to approval.
Always check the current waiver policies before initiating a change.
Same-Day Flight Change Policy
Air India does not officially offer a same-day confirmed change policy like some international carriers. However, depending on availability and fare rules, you may be allowed to move to an earlier or later flight on the same day by paying the required Air India flight change fee.
This is most feasible at major hubs like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru where multiple daily flights operate on popular routes.
Tips to Avoid or Minimize Air India Change Fees
Book Flexible Fares: Higher-priced flexible tickets often allow free changes.
Purchase Travel Insurance: Many policies cover change fees for covered reasons.
Make Changes Early: Fees often increase closer to departure.
Watch for Airline Alerts: Schedule changes initiated by Air India may qualify you for free adjustments.
Air India Flight Change Fee Policy for Award Tickets
If you've booked a ticket using Air India Flying Returns miles, change policies differ:
Domestic Award Tickets: Changes allowed with a nominal fee of INR 500–INR 1,000.
International Award Tickets: Fees range from USD 25–USD 100, depending on sector and class.
Miles difference may also apply if you're switching to a different fare level.
Refund and Cancellation Considerations
If you're unsure about your travel, consider canceling the flight instead of changing it. Cancellation penalties are generally higher than change fees, but in some cases, refunds can be requested for medical or compassionate grounds.
Conclusion: Stay Informed and Save More
The Air India Flight Change Fee policy is built to offer flexibility while ensuring that operational costs are covered. Whether you're a frequent flyer or a first-time traveler with the airline, understanding the nuances of this policy ensures you make informed decisions when your plans shift. Always review the fare conditions at the time of booking and use official channels for any modifications.
