Malaysia Airlines offers a cancellation policy that varies depending on the type of ticket purchased (refundable vs. non-refundable), as well as the specific conditions attached to the fare. Here's a general overview of their cancellation and refund policies:
1. Refundable Tickets
- Refundable tickets can typically be canceled for a full refund, but a cancellation fee will likely apply.
- The cancellation fee may vary depending on the fare class, route, and how close to the departure date the cancellation occurs.
- Refunds for refundable tickets are generally processed back to the original form of payment, but processing times may take several weeks.
2. Non-Refundable Tickets
- Non-refundable tickets are usually not eligible for a refund if canceled, except in certain circumstances (e.g., if Malaysia Airlines cancels the flight, or in cases of severe illness or death).
- However, if you need to change your flight, Malaysia Airlines does allow you to change your ticket for a fee, along with any fare difference between the original and new flight.
- In some cases, Malaysia Airlines may offer a voucher or credit for future travel instead of a refund, but this depends on the fare conditions.
3. Cancellation Fees
- Cancellation fees for non-refundable tickets can vary depending on the route, the class of service, and how far in advance you cancel.
- Generally, the closer you are to the flight departure date, the higher the cancellation fee. For long-haul international flights, the fees are typically higher than for domestic flights.
4. 24-Hour Cancellation Policy
- Malaysia Airlines follows the 24-hour cancellation policy for flights booked directly through their website or customer service (and if the flight is more than 7 days away from the booking date).
- If you cancel your booking within 24 hours of making the reservation, and the flight is more than 7 days away, you may be eligible for a full refund (without cancellation fees).
- This policy is in line with many international consumer protection laws, but it only applies to bookings made directly with the airline.
5. Flight Changes
- If you need to change your flight, Malaysia Airlines allows you to make changes for a fee and any fare difference.
- Changes are generally allowed up until a few hours before the scheduled departure.
- If you change your flight, it is important to do so as early as possible to minimize any penalties or additional charges.
6. No-Show Policy
- If you do not show up for your flight and have not canceled in advance, your ticket will likely be forfeited, and you will not receive a refund or credit.
- It’s always advisable to contact the airline as soon as possible if you know you won’t be able to make your flight, to explore rebooking options.
7. Special Circumstances (e.g., Airline Cancellations or Emergencies)
- If Malaysia Airlines cancels your flight, you are entitled to a full refund or the option to be rebooked on a later flight.
- In the case of personal emergencies, such as illness or death, Malaysia Airlines may offer flexibility with cancellations or rebooking, but you would need to provide appropriate documentation.
- During extraordinary circumstances (like natural disasters or travel restrictions), the airline may offer more flexibility in terms of rebooking, cancellation waivers, or vouchers for future travel.
8. How to Cancel
- Cancellations can be done online via the Malaysia Airlines website or mobile app, or by contacting their customer service directly.
- If you booked through a third-party platform, you may need to cancel through the same channel (e.g., travel agency or booking website).
9. Exceptional Circumstances
- In the case of global events like the COVID-19 pandemic, Malaysia Airlines has provided more flexible rebooking options, such as waiving change fees or offering travel vouchers instead of refunds.
- Always check Malaysia Airlines’ website or contact customer service for updates on how special circumstances might affect your booking.
10. Refund Process
- If you are eligible for a refund, it may take several weeks for the refund to be processed, depending on the payment method and the specific conditions of the fare.
- Refunds are generally credited to the original form of payment. If you booked through a third-party service, the refund may take longer.
