+1-877-777-6741Planning a trip but worried about last-minute changes? Ethiopian Airlines offers a flexible cancellation policy to accommodate travelers’ changing plans. Whether you need to cancel a flight due to unforeseen circumstances or simply change your itinerary. Understanding the Ethiopian Airlines Cancellation Policy 2025 can save you time, money, and stress. Whether you’ve booked a standard ticket or an award flight, this page covers everything—from cancellation fees to refund processes, 24-hour flexibility, and international travel rules.
Table of Contents
Overview of Ethiopian Airlines Cancellation Policy 2025
Ethiopian Airlines allows passengers to cancel their flights, but the conditions vary based on ticket type, fare rules, and timing. Here’s what you need to know:
| Policy Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| 24-Hour Cancellation | Free cancellation within 24 hours if booked at least 7 days before departure |
| Refundable Tickets | Full refund allowed with no cancellation fee |
| Non-Refundable Tickets | $100-$400 fee; remaining value issued as travel credit |
| Award Tickets | Subject to mileage redeposit fees (varies by program) |
| Cancellation Methods | Online, phone (+251 11 517 89 89), or airport ticket office |
| Refund Processing | 7-20 business days for credit cards; immediate for travel vouchers |
| No-Show Policy | $200-$400 fee; ticket may be forfeited |
| Rebooking | Allowed with possible fare difference (no fee for flexible tickets) |
| Exceptions | Waivers possible for medical emergencies (with documentation) and airline cancellations |
What is the Ethiopian Airlines 24-hour Cancellation Policy?
Ethiopian Airlines offers a 24-hour cancellation policy, allowing passengers to cancel their tickets within 24 hours of booking without incurring a cancellation fee, provided the booking was made at least seven days before departure.
| Policy Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Eligibility | Applies to all ticket types (including non-refundable) |
| Time Frame | Must cancel within 24 hours of booking |
| Departure Requirement | Flight must be at least 7 days away |
| Cancellation Fee | No fee – Full refund provided |
| Refund Method | Original payment form (credit card, bank transfer, etc.) |
| How to Cancel | Online, via phone (+251 11 517 89 89), or at airport ticket office |
| Exceptions | Partially used tickets or special fares may have restrictions |
What are the Ticket Cancellation Charges for Ethiopian Airlines?
The Ethiopian Airlines ticket cancellation charges vary based on the ticket type, fare rules, and timing of cancellation. Here are some key points to consider:
| Ticket Type | Cancellation Charges | Refund Eligibility |
|---|---|---|
| Refundable Tickets | No cancellation fee | Full refund to original payment method |
| Non-Refundable Economy | $100-$300 fee | Remaining value as travel credit |
| Non-Refundable Business | $200-$400 fee | Remaining value as travel credit |
| Award Tickets | 5,000-15,000 miles redeposit fee | Miles returned minus fee |
| Within 24 Hours | No fee (if eligible) | Full refund |
| No-Show | 100% of ticket value | No refund |
What is the Cancellation Fee for Ethiopian Airlines International Flights?
Ethiopian Airlines cancellation fees for international flights vary based on ticket type, fare rules, and timing of cancellation. Here are some key points:
| Ticket Type | Cancellation Fee (USD) | Refund Eligibility | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Refundable Economy | $0 (Free) | Full refund | Applies to Flexi fares |
| Non-Refundable Economy | $150–$300 | Travel credit (minus fee) | Credit valid for 12 months |
| Premium Economy | $200–$350 | Partial refund or credit | Depends on fare rules |
| Business Class (Refundable) | $0 (Free) | Full refund | Higher flexibility |
| Business Class (Non-Refundable) | $300–$500 | Travel credit (minus fee) | Long-haul fees may be higher |
| First Class | $400–$600 | Case-by-case refund | Contact airline for exceptions |
| Award Tickets | 10,000–20,000 miles + $100 | Miles redeposited (minus fee) | ShebaMiles program rules apply |
| Within 24 Hours | $0 (Free) | Full refund | Must book 7+ days pre-departure |
| No-Show | 100% of ticket value | No refund | Rebooking may require new ticket |
How to Cancel an Ethiopian Airlines Flight?
You can cancel your Ethiopian Airlines flight using these methods:
Online Cancellation
- Go to “Manage My Booking”.
- Enter your booking reference & last name.
- Select your flight and follow cancellation steps.
Cancellation via Phone
- Call Ethiopian Airlines customer service at +251 11 517 89 89 (International) or your local office.
- Provide your booking details for assistance.
How Does the Ethiopian Airlines Refund Process Work?
Ethiopian Airlines provides a structured refund process for passengers who need to cancel their flights. Here’s how it works:
- Online Refund Request:
- If you booked your ticket via the Ethiopian Airlines website or mobile app, you can request a refund online by visiting the refund request page.
- Fill out the required form with your full name, ticket number, email, and phone number.
- Submit the form, and Ethiopian Airlines will process your request.
- Refund for Travel Agency Tickets:
- If your ticket was purchased through a travel agency, you must contact the agency directly to request a refund.
- Refund for Cash or Bank Deposit Purchases:
- If you bought your ticket using cash or bank deposit, visit the nearest Ethiopian Airlines ticket office for assistance.
Refund Rules & Fees
- No-Show Fee: If the refund request is made on or after the flight date, an additional no-show fee will apply.
- Service Interruptions: If Ethiopian Airlines cancels or reschedules your flight, you may be eligible for a refund on extra services like seat selection, baggage, Wi-Fi, and lounge access.
- Processing Time: Refunds may take several weeks to process, depending on the payment method and ticket type.
How Can I Check My Ethiopian Airlines Refund Status?
You can check the status of your Ethiopian Airlines refund request using the following methods:
| Method | Steps | Processing Time |
|---|---|---|
| Online | 1. Visit Manage My Booking 2. Enter booking reference & last name 3. Check “Refund Status” | Updates in real-time |
| Phone | Call +251 11 517 89 89 (provide booking number & cancellation details) | Immediate verbal update |
| Email refunds@ethiopianairlines.com with your ticket number | Reply within 3-5 days | |
| Airport Office | Visit an Ethiopian Airlines ticket counter with ID & booking proof | On-the-spot assistance |
Refund Timeline
- Credit Cards: 7–20 business days (depends on your bank)
- Bank Transfers: Up to 4 weeks
- Travel Credits: Issued instantly (check voucher via email)
How Can I Avoid Cancellation Fees with Ethiopian Airlines?
To avoid cancellation fees with Ethiopian Airlines, consider the following strategies:
| Strategy | How It Works | Key Details |
|---|---|---|
| Cancel Within 24 Hours | Free cancellation if done within 24 hours of booking AND ≥7 days before departure | Applies to ALL ticket types (including non-refundable) |
| Book Refundable Fares | Pay slightly more upfront for flexible tickets with $0 cancellation fees | Look for “Flexi” or “Refundable” fare options during booking |
| Use Travel Insurance | Claim cancellation costs if canceling for covered reasons (illness, job loss, etc.) | Requires documentation (e.g., doctor’s note for medical cancellations) |
| Rebook Instead of Cancel | Change flight dates (may only pay fare difference, no cancellation fee) | Must rebook before original departure date |
| Wait for Airline Changes | If Ethiopian changes your flight (time/route), you’re entitled to fee-free cancellation | Monitor flight status for schedule changes (>2 hours qualifies) |
| Military/Government Orders | Fee waiver with official deployment/travel orders | Submit documentation via email/customer service |
| Bereavement/Family Emergency | Case-by-case fee waivers with proof (death certificate, hospital letter) | Contact customer service at +251 11 517 89 89 |
What are the Rebooking options available with Ethiopian Airlines?
Ethiopian Airlines offers flexible rebooking options to accommodate changes in travel plans. Here’s how you can modify your flight:
| Option | How It Works | Fees/Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Free Same-Day Change | Rebook on an earlier/later flight the same day (if available) | No fee (must request at airport 2+ hours before departure) |
| Flexible Rebooking | Change dates/routes before departure (for Flexi/refundable tickets) | No fee (may pay fare difference) |
| Standard Rebooking | Modify non-refundable tickets (economy/business) | $50–$200 fee + fare difference (varies by route) |
| COVID-19 Waivers | Rebook penalty-free for pandemic-related disruptions (with proof) | No fee (special policies apply – check website) |
| Involuntary Changes | If Ethiopian changes your flight (>2 hours), rebook/reroute for free | Priority rebooking on next available flight |
| Award Ticket Changes | Modify ShebaMiles redemption bookings | 5,000–10,000 miles redeposit fee + fare difference (if applicable) |
| Group Bookings | Adjustments for 10+ passengers | Case-by-case (contact group desk at +251 11 665 2222) |
What Compensation Does Ethiopian Airlines provide for Cancellations?
Ethiopian Airlines provides compensation for flight cancellations under certain conditions. Here’s what you need to know:
| Scenario | Compensation Provided | Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Cancellation Within 14 Days (EU/UK flights) | Cash compensation: • €250 (short-haul) • €400 (medium-haul) • €600 (long-haul) | Applies only to flights departing EU/UK under EC 261 regulation |
| Non-EU Cancellations | • Rebooking on next available flight • Meal vouchers + hotel (if overnight delay) • Full refund if preferred | No cash compensation required by law (varies by country) |
| Weather/Air Traffic Cancellations | • Free rebooking/refund • No cash compensation (considered “extraordinary circumstances”) | Applies globally |
| Cancellation Due to Strike | • Rebooking/refund only • No cash compensation (unless strike is airline’s fault) | Documentation required |
| No Advance Notice (<7 days) | • Compensation + care (meals/hotel) • Amount depends on flight distance & delay length | Excludes extraordinary events |
| Involuntary Downgrade | • 30-75% refund of fare difference (Business→Economy) • Miles compensation for frequent flyers | Claim within 30 days of travel |
What is the Cancellation Policy for Ethiopian Airlines Award Tickets?
Ethiopian Airlines Award Ticket Cancellation Policy follows specific guidelines based on fare rules and ShebaMiles membership terms. Here are the key points:
| Policy Aspect | Details | Fees/Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| 24-Hour Cancellation | Free cancellation within 24 hours of booking (if ≥7 days before departure) | No fee – Full miles redeposit & taxes refunded |
| Standard Cancellation | Cancel anytime after 24-hour window | $50–150 fee + 5,000–15,000 miles penalty (varies by route/class) |
| Miles Redeposit | Miles returned to ShebaMiles account (minus penalty) | Takes 3–7 business days to process |
| Taxes/Fees Refund | Government taxes & carrier fees refunded (minus any service charges) | 7–30 days processing (original payment method) |
| Elite Member Benefits | ShebaMiles Platinum/Gold: 50–100% fee waiver | Must call +251 11 517 89 89 to request waiver |
| Partner Award Tickets | Star Alliance partner flights follow issuing airline’s rules | Lufthansa/United etc. may have different penalties |
| No-Show Policy | Missed flight = 100% miles forfeited + taxes/fees retained | Reinstatement possible within 24h (with $200 fee) |
What Special Circumstances affect Ethiopian Airlines Cancellations?
Ethiopian Airlines provides flexibility for cancellations under special circumstances, including emergencies and airline-initiated disruptions. Here are some key scenarios where cancellation policies may differ:
| Scenario | Policy | Required Documentation | Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|
| Medical Emergencies | Fee waiver or refund with valid proof | • Doctor’s certificate • Hospital admission records • Medical board report (if severe) | Full refund or free rebooking (case-by-case approval) |
| Bereavement | Fee-free cancellation for immediate family deaths | • Death certificate • Proof of relationship (e.g., birth/marriage certificate) | Rebooking or refund (within 14 days of submission) |
| Military/Government Orders | No fees for official duty cancellations | • Deployment orders • Government-issued travel directive | Full refund or travel credit |
| Natural Disasters | Waivers for flights affected by hurricanes, earthquakes, etc. | • News reports • Official government advisories | Free rebooking or refund (valid for 30+ days post-event) |
| Visa Denials | Refund/fee waiver if denied entry to destination | • Visa rejection letter from embassy • Passport stamp | Refund minus processing fee (varies by country) |
| Pregnancy (Late-Term) | Flexible changes for expectant mothers (after 28 weeks) | • Medical certificate confirming due date • Fitness-to-fly waiver | Free rebooking or credit (no cash refund) |
| Airline-Initiated Changes | Free cancellation/refund if schedule changes exceed 2+ hours | • Notification email from Ethiopian Airlines | Full refund or alternative flight |
| COVID-19/Flu Pandemics | Temporary waivers for positive test results or travel bans | • Positive PCR test • Government travel restriction notice | Travel credit (valid 12–24 months) |
What is the Ethiopian Airlines No-Show Policy?
Ethiopian Airlines No-Show Policy applies when a passenger fails to cancel their reservation at least 24 hours before departure or does not show up for their flight. Here’s what you need to know:
| Policy Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Definition | Passenger fails to board without prior cancellation/modification |
| Penalty | • 100% ticket forfeiture (no refund/credit) • Possible $200–$400 no-show fee (varies by route/class) |
| Rebooking Option | • Must purchase new ticket • Original ticket value not applicable |
| Exceptions | • Verified medical emergencies (with documentation) • Airline-caused delays (e.g., missed connection) |
| Award Tickets | • Miles not redeposited • Taxes/fees forfeited |
| How to Avoid | • Cancel online before departure • Modify booking (even last-minute) |
| Partial No-Show | If skipping one leg: Remaining segments automatically canceled |
What are the Exceptions to the Ethiopian Airlines Cancellation Policy 2025?
Ethiopian Airlines provides exceptions to its standard cancellation policy under specific circumstances. Here are some key scenarios where cancellation fees may be waived or adjusted:
| Exception Category | Policy Adjustment | Required Proof |
|---|---|---|
| Medical Emergencies | Fee waiver for passenger/immediate family illness | • Doctor’s certificate • Hospital admission records |
| Bereavement | No fees for cancellations due to family death (spouse/parent/child/sibling) | • Death certificate • Proof of relationship |
| Military Orders | Fee-free cancellation for active-duty personnel | • Official deployment papers • Government ID |
| Visa Denials | Partial refund if denied entry to destination | • Embassy rejection letter • Passport stamp |
| Natural Disasters | Flexible rebooking/refund during hurricanes, earthquakes, or political unrest | • Government travel advisory • News reports |
| Airline Schedule Changes | Free cancellation if flight time changes by >2 hours | • Ethiopian Airlines’ notification email |
| Pregnancy Complications | Late-term (after 28 weeks) or high-risk pregnancy cancellations | • Obstetrician’s fitness-to-fly waiver |
| COVID-19 Positivity | Temporary waiver with positive test result | • PCR test result (dated within 72h of flight) |
How Do Cancellations Work for Ethiopian Airlines Loyalty Program Members?
Ethiopian Airlines ShebaMiles Loyalty Program offers specific cancellation policies for members based on their ticket type and membership tier. Here’s how cancellations work for loyalty program members:
Cancellation Rules for ShebaMiles Members
- Award Ticket Cancellation: Members can cancel award tickets, but refund eligibility depends on Ethiopian Airlines’ loyalty program rules.
- Miles Deduction: If an award ticket is canceled, Ethiopian Airlines may deduct miles from the passenger’s ShebaMiles account based on fare conditions.
- No-Show Fee: If the cancellation request is made on or after the flight date, an additional no-show fee may apply.
- Refund Process: Passengers can request a refund for award tickets through Ethiopian Airlines’ refund request page.
Visit All: Ethiopian Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Policy
Final Thoughts
Understanding the Ethiopian Airlines Cancellation Policy 2025 helps you make informed decisions. Whether you’re canceling a standard ticket, an award flight, or need last-minute flexibility, knowing the fees, processes, and exceptions ensures a hassle-free experience.
FAQs on Ethiopian Airlines Cancellation Policy
If you’re planning to cancel or modify your Ethiopian Airlines flight, you likely have questions about fees, refunds, and policies.
What is the Ethiopian Airlines Cancellation Policy 2025?
Ethiopian Airlines offers a flexible cancellation policy, allowing passengers to cancel their flights under certain conditions. Refund eligibility depends on the ticket type, timing, and reason for cancellation.
How do I Cancel my Ethiopian Airlines flight?
You can cancel your Ethiopian Airlines flight through the following methods:
Online: Visit the Ethiopian Airlines website and navigate to “Manage Booking.”
Phone Support: Call Ethiopian Airlines customer service.
Ticket Office: Visit the nearest Ethiopian Airlines ticket office if your ticket was purchased via a travel agency or bank deposit.
Is there a Cancellation fee for Ethiopian Airlines Flights?
Yes, Ethiopian Airlines charges a cancellation fee depending on the ticket type and timing of cancellation.
What is the Cancellation fee for Ethiopian Airlines economy Tickets?
Cancellation fees for economy tickets vary based on fare rules. Refundable tickets may have lower fees, while non-refundable tickets may not be eligible for a refund.
What happens if I Cancel my flight within 24 hours of booking?
If you cancel within 24 hours of booking, you may be eligible for a full refund, provided the booking was made at least seven days before departure.
Can I get a Refund if I have a non-Refundable Ticket?
Non-refundable tickets generally do not qualify for a refund. However, exceptions may apply in cases of involuntary cancellations or special circumstances.
How long does it take to process a Refund from Ethiopian Airlines?
Refund processing times vary, but Ethiopian Airlines typically processes refunds within a few weeks. The exact duration depends on the payment method and ticket type.
Are there any exceptions to the Ethiopian Airlines Cancellation fees?
Exceptions may apply for involuntary cancellations, such as flight disruptions caused by Ethiopian Airlines or emergencies.
What is the No-Show Policy for Ethiopian Airlines?
If you fail to cancel your ticket at least 24 hours before departure, a no-show fee will apply.
How much is the No-Show fee for Ethiopian Airlines Flights?
The no-show fee varies based on ticket type and fare rules. It is charged when a passenger does not cancel their reservation before departure.
Can I rebook my flight instead of Canceling it?
Yes, Ethiopian Airlines allows passengers to rebook their flights instead of canceling, subject to fare rules and availability.
What are the Cancellation charges for International Flights?
Cancellation charges for international flights depend on the ticket type, destination, and timing of cancellation.
Do ancillary purchases, like seat upgrades, get Refunded if I Cancel?
Refunds for ancillary purchases such as seat upgrades, baggage fees, and Wi-Fi services depend on Ethiopian Airlines’ refund policy.
How do I check the status of my Refund request?
You can check your refund status by visiting the Ethiopian Airlines refund page or contacting customer service.
What should I do if my flight is Canceled by Ethiopian Airlines?
If Ethiopian Airlines cancels your flight, you may be eligible for a refund or rebooking at no additional cost.
How Can I contact Ethiopian Airlines for Cancellation assistance?
You can contact Ethiopian Airlines via their customer service phone number or visit their ticket office for cancellation assistance.
What if I need to Cancel my flight due to a medical emergency?
Passengers needing to cancel due to a medical emergency should contact Ethiopian Airlines directly to inquire about possible exceptions or refunds.