LOT Polish Airlines’ cancellation policy varies depending on the type of ticket you have purchased (refundable vs. non-refundable), the fare class, and the specific circumstances surrounding the cancellation. Here's a general breakdown:
1. Refundable Tickets
- Refundable tickets can typically be canceled for a full refund, but there may still be a cancellation fee depending on the fare rules.
- Refundable tickets tend to be more flexible, allowing you to change your flight as well, though change fees and fare differences may apply.
- Refunds are usually processed back to the original payment method, but this can take a few weeks to process.
2. Non-Refundable Tickets
- Non-refundable tickets are not eligible for a refund if canceled, except in special circumstances (e.g., serious illness, death, or if the airline cancels the flight).
- If you cancel a non-refundable ticket, the airline typically won’t refund the ticket cost, but you may be able to receive a voucher or credit for future travel (sometimes with a fee).
- Flight changes: You may be able to change your flight, but this will usually come with a change fee and any difference in fare between your original ticket and the new one.
3. Cancellation Fees
- Cancellation fees for non-refundable tickets can vary based on the fare class and route. These fees are usually higher the closer you are to the departure date.
- For international flights, the cancellation fees can be substantial. For domestic flights, they tend to be lower.
- In some cases, you may be eligible for a partial refund if you cancel your flight early, but this depends on the terms of the fare.
4. 24-Hour Cancellation Policy
- LOT Polish Airlines offers a 24-hour cancellation window for bookings made directly on their website.
- If you cancel your flight within 24 hours of booking (and your flight is more than 7 days away), you may be eligible for a full refund, regardless of whether your ticket is refundable or not.
- This is in line with many international travel regulations, particularly in the EU, where airlines are required to offer a cooling-off period for customers.
5. Flight Changes
- If you need to change your flight, there will generally be a change fee, plus any fare difference for a new flight.
- LOT Polish Airlines allows you to change your flight online via their website or through their customer service, but changes are generally more expensive as you get closer to the departure date.
6. Special Circumstances
- If LOT Polish Airlines cancels your flight, you are entitled to a full refund or rebooking on another flight.
- In the case of long delays, passengers may be entitled to compensation under EU regulations (if flying within or from the EU).
- For certain unforeseen events like illness or death, LOT may allow flexibility with changes or cancellations, but you'll likely need to provide documentation.
7. No-Show Policy
- If you fail to show up for your flight without canceling, your ticket is typically forfeited and no refund or credit will be issued.
- However, if you contact them in advance and explain your situation, they might offer to rebook you, possibly for a fee, depending on the circumstances.
8. How to Cancel
- Cancellations can be done online through the LOT Polish Airlines website or by contacting their customer service.
- If you booked through a travel agency or third-party site, you’ll need to go through them to make changes or cancellations.
9. Exceptional Cases (e.g., COVID-19, Emergency Situations)
- During extraordinary circumstances (such as the COVID-19 pandemic), LOT Polish Airlines may offer more flexible rebooking or refund options, including waiving cancellation fees in some cases. Always check their website or contact customer service for details on current exceptions.
