Planning a trip but worried about last-minute changes? Singapore Airlines offers a structured cancellation policy that varies based on fare type, route, and timing. Understanding these rules can help travelers avoid unnecessary fees and ensure a smooth refund process. Understanding the Singapore Airlines Cancellation rules can save you time, money, and stress. Whether you’re canceling a standard ticket, an award flight, or making changes within 24 hours of booking, this page covers everything you need to know.

Table of Contents
Overview of Singapore Airlines Cancellation Policy
Singapore Airlines offers a flexible cancellation policy, allowing passengers to cancel or modify their bookings based on fare rules. Key aspects include:
Category | Policy Details |
---|---|
24-Hour Cancellation | Full refund if canceled within 24 hours of booking (must be made at least 7 days before departure). Excludes some promo fares. |
Refundable Tickets | Can be canceled anytime before departure for a full refund (minus any service fees). |
Non-Refundable Tickets | Cancellation fees apply ($75–$600 depending on route/class). Remaining value issued as travel credit. |
Award Ticket Cancellation | Free within 24 hours. After 24 hours: $25–$100 fee + mileage redeposit charge. |
No-Show Policy | Entire ticket value forfeited (unless rescheduled in advance). Award tickets lose miles. |
Refund Processing Time | Credit Cards: 7–20 days. Bank Transfers: Up to 4 weeks. Travel vouchers: Instant. |
International Flight Cancellation Fees | Economy: $100–$400. Business/First: $200–$600. Award tickets: $25–$100 + miles fee. |
Medical/Emergency Cancellations | Fee waivers possible with valid documentation (doctor’s note, police report). |
Group Bookings | Higher fees; requires direct contact with Group Travel team. |
Ancillary Refunds (Seats/Upgrades) | Refunded if canceled within 24 hours. Non-refundable afterward. |
Flight Canceled by Singapore Airlines | Full refund OR free rebooking on next available flight. |
Singapore Airlines 24-Hour Cancellation Policy
Under the Singapore Airlines 24-hour cancellation policy, passengers can cancel their flight within 24 hours of booking for a full refund, provided:
Eligibility | Applies to all ticket types (Economy, Premium Economy, Business, First Class) |
Timeframe | Must cancel within 24 hours of booking |
Advance Booking Requirement | Must be booked at least 7 days before departure |
Refund Amount | Full refund (100% of ticket price) |
Processing Time | 7-20 business days for credit card refunds |
Exceptions | Doesn’t apply to: – Group bookings – Some promotional fares – Tickets booked through third parties |
Cancellation Method | – Online via Manage Booking – Phone (+65 6223 8888) |
Award Tickets | Also eligible for free cancellation within 24 hours |
Ancillary Services | Seat selection/upgrade fees also refundable |
Time Calculation | 24-hour period starts from booking confirmation time |
This policy applies to both economy and business class tickets, offering flexibility for last-minute changes.
What are the Ticket Cancellation Charges for Singapore Airlines?
Cancellation fees vary based on:
Ticket Type | Cancellation Fee | Refund Eligibility |
---|---|---|
Refundable Economy | No fee | Full refund |
Non-Refundable Economy (Short-haul) | SGD 100-200 | Travel credit (minus fee) |
Non-Refundable Economy (Long-haul) | SGD 200-400 | Travel credit (minus fee) |
Premium Economy | SGD 250-450 | Travel credit (minus fee) |
Business Class | SGD 300-600 | Travel credit (minus fee) |
First Class | SGD 400-800 | Travel credit (minus fee) |
Award Tickets (KrisFlyer) | USD 25-100 + miles redeposit fee | Miles redeposited (minus fee) |
Saver Fare Tickets | Higher fees (up to 75% of ticket value) | No cash refund |
Group Bookings (10+ passengers) | 25-50% of ticket value | Case-by-case basis |
What is the Cancellation Fee for Singapore Airlines International Flights?
The cancellation fee for Singapore Airlines international flights depends on the fare type and route. Refundable tickets may have minimal fees, while non-refundable tickets generally do not qualify for a refund except for applicable taxes.
Route Type | Economy Class | Premium Economy | Business Class | First Class | Refundable Fares |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Short-Haul (ASEAN/Asia) | SGD 100-200 | SGD 150-300 | SGD 200-400 | SGD 300-500 | No fee |
Medium-Haul (Australia/India/Middle East) | SGD 200-350 | SGD 250-400 | SGD 300-500 | SGD 400-600 | No fee |
Long-Haul (Europe/USA) | SGD 300-500 | SGD 350-550 | SGD 400-700 | SGD 500-800 | No fee |
Ultra-Long-Haul (USA West Coast/NYC) | SGD 350-600 | SGD 400-650 | SGD 500-800 | SGD 600-900 | No fee |
How Does the Singapore Airlines Refund Process Work?
The refund process for Singapore Airlines is straightforward:
Step | Action | Timeframe | Important Details | What You Need |
---|---|---|---|---|
Cancellation Request | Submit cancellation via website, app, or call center | Immediately processed | 24-hour free cancellation available for eligible bookings | Booking reference & passenger details |
Refund Eligibility Check | System verifies fare rules | Instant for online requests | Non-refundable tickets may get credit instead of cash | Original payment method info |
Refund Processing | Airline processes approved refund | 7-21 business days | Credit card refunds faster than bank transfers | Patience – delays possible |
Refund Issuance | Amount returned to original payment method | Varies by bank | May appear as “pending” before clearing | Check with your bank |
Refund Notification | Email confirmation sent | Within 24h of processing | Contains refund tracking number | Keep for records |
Funds Received | Amount appears in your account | Depends on financial institution | International transfers take longest | Monitor your statements |
Special Cases:
Scenario | Refund Type | Processing Time | Notes |
---|---|---|---|
Credit Card Payments | Original card | 7-14 business days | Fastest method |
Bank Transfers | Original account | 14-28 business days | Longer for international |
Travel Vouchers | Electronic credit | 24-48 hours | Valid for 12 months |
Award Tickets | Miles redeposit | 5-7 business days | Plus fee reversal |
Partially Used Tickets | Unused tax refund | 21-30 days | No fare refund |
How Can I Check My Singapore Airlines Refund Status?
You can check the status of your Singapore Airlines refund through the given details:
Method | Steps | Processing Time | What You’ll Need | Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|
Online (Website) | 1. Go to SingaporeAir.com/refunds 2. Enter Booking Reference & Last Name 3. Click “Check Refund Status” | Instant | – Booking number – Passenger surname | 24/7 access Shows approval date & estimated credit date |
Mobile App | 1. Open SingaporeAir app 2. Go to “My Trips” 3. Select canceled booking 4. Tap “Refund Status” | Instant | – App login – Booking details | Push notifications for updates |
Phone Support | Call +65 6223 8888 (Select “Refund Inquiry” option) | 5-10 min wait time | – Booking reference – Payment details | 24/7 availability Best for complex cases |
Send request to refunds@singaporeair.com Include: – Booking number – Passenger name – Ticket number | 3-5 business days reply | – Email receipt – Cancellation confirmation | Keep email thread for records | |
Travel Agent | Contact your booking agent directly | Varies by agent | – Agency reference number | Required for third-party bookings |
What Your Refund Status Means
Status | Meaning | Next Steps |
---|---|---|
Processing | Refund request received | Wait 7-21 days |
Approved | Refund queued for payment | Check payment method |
Completed | Funds sent to your bank | Allow 3-5 days for bank processing |
Rejected | Doesn’t meet policy terms | Contact airline for options |
How Can I Avoid Cancellation Fees with Singapore Airlines?
Avoiding cancellation fees with Singapore Airlines requires careful planning and understanding of their fare rules. Here are some strategies:
Method | How It Works | Best For | Key Details |
---|---|---|---|
Cancel Within 24 Hours | Free full refund if canceled within 24 hours of booking AND at least 7 days before departure | All ticket types | Excludes: – Group bookings – Some promo fares |
Book Refundable Fares | Pay extra for Flexi/Full Fare tickets with $0 cancellation fees | Business travelers Uncertain plans | 2-3x more expensive but fully refundable |
Use Travel Insurance | Claim cancellation fees back for covered reasons (illness, job loss, etc.) | International trips Expensive tickets | Requires documentation Pre-existing conditions often excluded |
Reschedule Instead | Change flight dates (often lower fees than canceling) | Flexible travelers | Saver fares: SGD 50-100 change fee Flexi fares: Free changes |
Wait for Schedule Changes | If airline changes flight time >5 hours, get free cancellation | Patient travelers | Monitor flight status emails |
Military/Medical Waivers | Fee waiver with official documentation (orders, doctor’s note) | Emergencies | Call +65 6223 8888 for case review |
KrisFlyer Elite Status | Silver/Gold members get reduced fees (up to 50% off) | Frequent flyers | Gold: SGD 100 → SGD 50 fee example |
Credit Card Protections | Use cards with trip cancellation benefits (e.g., Amex Platinum) | Premium cardholders | Covers up to $10,000 per trip |
Fee-Saving Strategies by Ticket Type
Ticket Type | Hack | Potential Savings |
---|---|---|
Non-Refundable Economy | Cancel early (>7 days before flight) | SGD 100 → SGD 75 fee |
Award Tickets | Cancel within 24 hours | Avoid $25-100 redeposit fee |
Promo Fares | Convert to travel credit instead of refund | Save 100% of fare value |
Group Bookings | Negotiate flexible terms upfront | Possible 50% fee reduction |
What are the Rebooking options available with Singapore Airlines?
Singapore Airlines offers several rebooking options depending on your fare type and circumstances:
- Manage Booking Online – You can modify your flight details through the Manage Booking section on the Singapore Airlines website.
- Flexible Fare Changes – If you booked a flexible fare, you may be able to change your flight without additional fees.
- Medical or Emergency Rebooking – If you need to reschedule due to a medical emergency, Singapore Airlines may allow changes without penalties, provided you submit supporting documents.
- Flight Disruptions – If Singapore Airlines cancels or significantly changes your flight schedule, you may be eligible for a free rebooking.
- Travel Agent Bookings – If you booked through a travel agency, you must contact them directly for rebooking assistance.
Rebooking Rules by Fare Type
Fare Class | Change Fee | Ticket Validity | Key Restriction |
---|---|---|---|
Saver (Economy) | SGD 100-200 | Must rebook within 1 year | Fare difference applies |
Flexi (Economy) | Free first change | Original ticket validity | No same-day changes |
Premium Economy | SGD 150-300 | 12 months from issue | Route changes prohibited |
Business Saver | SGD 200-400 | Same cabin only | Blackout dates apply |
Business Flexi | Free changes | Any SQ flight available | Full refund option |
What Compensation Does Singapore Airlines provide for Cancellations?
Singapore Airlines provides compensation for flight cancellations under certain conditions:
Cancellation Type | Compensation Provided | Conditions | How to Claim |
---|---|---|---|
Airline-Initiated (Within 14 Days) | Rebooking on next available flight Meal vouchers (if >4hr wait) Hotel+transfers (overnight delay) Cash compensation (EU/US routes only) | Applies to controllable cancellations (non-weather/non-strike) | Automatic at airport or via online form |
EU Flight Cancellations (EC261) | €250-600 cash compensation + full refund option | Delays >3hrs on EU-departing flights | Submit claim at SQ EU Claim Portal |
US Flight Cancellations (DOT Rules) | Full refund to original payment method + $200 travel credit (voluntary) | Cancelled >72hrs from departure | Call US hotline +1 800 742 3333 |
Involuntary (Weather/Political) | Free rebooking Travel voucher (if passenger declines rebooking) | Must be verified extraordinary circumstance | Email customer_care@singaporeair.com |
Medical/Emergency | Fee waiver + refund as travel credit | Valid documentation required (doctor’s note, police report) | Call +65 6223 8888 with proof |
What is the Cancellation Policy for Singapore Airlines award Tickets?
Singapore Airlines’ cancellation policy for award tickets depends on the type of award fare booked. Here are the key details:
Aspect | Policy Details |
---|---|
24-Hour Free Cancellation | Full refund of miles + taxes if canceled within 24 hours of booking (no fee) |
Standard Cancellation | – Fee: $25-$100 USD – Miles Redeposit Fee: $25 (online) / $30 (phone) |
Redeposit Time | Miles return to account in 5-7 business days |
Taxes/Fees Refund | Full refund of carrier-imposed taxes (takes 7-21 days) |
No-Show Policy | 100% mileage forfeiture + no tax refund (unless canceled before departure) |
Partner Award Tickets | Higher fees ($50-$150) + longer processing (up to 4 weeks) |
Elite Member Benefits | – KrisFlyer Gold: 50% fee discount – PPS Club: No redeposit fees |
What Special Circumstances affect Singapore Airlines Cancellations?
Singapore Airlines may allow cancellations under special circumstances, including:
- Medical Emergencies – If you need to cancel due to a medical emergency, you may be eligible for a refund or fee waiver. Supporting documents may be required.
- Flight Disruptions – If Singapore Airlines cancels or significantly changes your flight schedule, you may qualify for a full refund or free rebooking.
- Weather & Extraordinary Events – Cancellations due to severe weather, natural disasters, or government restrictions may be handled differently, with flexible rebooking options.
- EU & UK Regulations – If your flight departs from the EU or UK, you may be entitled to compensation under EU Regulation 261/2004, which can range from €250 to €600, depending on flight distance and delay duration.
- Bereavement Cases – Some airlines offer refunds or fee waivers for cancellations due to the death of an immediate family member. Contact customer service for details.
What is the Singapore Airlines No-Show Policy?
Singapore Airlines has a no-show policy that applies when a passenger fails to check in or board their flight. Here’s what you need to know:
- No-Show Fees – If you miss your flight without canceling in advance, you may be charged a no-show fee. For KrisFlyer award tickets, fees range from US$100 for Economy Class to US$300 for Business and First Class.
- Impact on Connecting Flights – If you miss the first leg of a multi-leg journey, the airline may cancel the remaining segments of your itinerary.
- Rebooking After a No-Show – You may be able to rebook your ticket, but additional fees will apply, including the no-show fee and any fare differences.
- Refunds After a No-Show – If you request a refund after missing your flight, the no-show fee will be deducted from the refund amount.
To avoid no-show penalties, it’s best to cancel or modify your booking in advance through the Manage Booking section on the Singapore Airlines website.
What are some tips for managing Singapore Airlines Cancellations?
Managing Singapore Airlines cancellations effectively can help you avoid unnecessary fees and disruptions. Here are some useful tips:
- Check the Airline’s Website First – Singapore Airlines provides real-time updates on cancellations and refund policies through their official website.
- Cancel Within 24 Hours – If your flight is to or from the USA, cancel within 24 hours of booking for a full refund, provided the reservation was made at least 7 days before departure.
- Use the Manage Booking Tool – Modify or cancel your flight easily through the Manage Booking section on the Singapore Airlines website.
- Contact Customer Support – If you need personalized assistance, reach out to Singapore Airlines via their customer service hotline or live chat.
- Consider Travel Insurance – Travel insurance can help cover cancellation fees and unexpected disruptions.
- Monitor Flight Status – Use apps or websites that provide real-time flight updates to stay informed about potential cancellations.
- Look for Alternative Flights – If your flight is canceled, check nearby airports or alternative routes to minimize delays.
What are the Exceptions to the Singapore Airlines Cancellation Policy?
Singapore Airlines offers certain exceptions to its cancellation policy based on specific circumstances:
- Medical Emergencies – If you need to cancel due to a medical emergency, you may be eligible for a refund or fee waiver, provided you submit supporting documents.
- Flight Disruptions – If Singapore Airlines cancels or significantly changes your flight schedule, you may qualify for a full refund or free rebooking.
- Weather & Extraordinary Events – Cancellations due to severe weather, natural disasters, or government restrictions may be handled differently, with flexible rebooking options.
- EU & UK Regulations – If your flight departs from the EU or UK, you may be entitled to compensation under EU Regulation 261/2004, which can range from €250 to €600, depending on flight distance and delay duration.
- Bereavement Cases – Some airlines offer refunds or fee waivers for cancellations due to the death of an immediate family member. Contact customer service for details.
How Do Cancellations Work for Singapore Airlines Loyalty Program Members?
Singapore Airlines’ KrisFlyer loyalty program has specific cancellation policies for award tickets and elite members:
Tier | Cancellation Fee Waivers | Mileage Redeposit Benefits | Refund Speed |
---|---|---|---|
KrisFlyer (Basic) | – | $25–$100 fee (online/phone) | 5–7 days |
Silver Elite | 25% discount on fees | $20–$75 fee | 3–5 days |
Gold Elite | 50% discount on fees | $15–$50 fee | 2–4 days |
PPS Club | No fees | Instant redeposit | 24 hours |
Solitaire PPS | No fees + priority refund | Instant redeposit + bonus miles | 24 hours |
How Can I Cancel a Singapore Airlines Flight?
Canceling a Singapore Airlines flight is straightforward, but the process varies slightly depending on your ticket type and booking method. Below is a clear, step-by-step breakdown of your options.
Method | Steps | Best For | Processing Time |
---|---|---|---|
Online (Website/App) | 1. Go to Manage Booking 2. Enter Booking Reference & Last Name 3. Select flight → Click “Cancel” 4. Confirm & check refund eligibility | Simple cancellations (Refundable & non-refundable tickets) | Instant confirmation Refund in 7–21 days |
Phone Support | Call +65 6223 8888 (24/7) Provide: – Booking reference – Passenger name – Payment details | Complex bookings (Group, award, or partner flights) | Immediate processing Refund in 5–14 days |
Airport Ticket Office | Visit Singapore Airlines counter at departure airport Bring: – Booking confirmation – ID/Passport | Urgent cancellations (Same-day or no-show cases) | On-the-spot resolution |
Travel Agent | Contact your original booking agency (Cannot cancel via SQ directly) | Third-party bookings (Expedia, Kayak, etc.) | Varies by agent |
Check Here: Hawaiian Airlines Cancellation Policy 2025
Conclusion
Understanding the Singapore Airlines cancellation policy ensures a smooth process for refunds, flight changes, or no-show situations. Whether you need flexibility within 24 hours of booking or want to avoid cancellation fees, knowing the terms helps you manage your travel plans efficiently. Always check the latest policy on Singapore Airlines official website or contact customer support for assistance.
FAQs on Singapore Airlines Cancellation Policy
What is the Singapore Airlines Cancellation policy?
Singapore Airlines allows cancellations based on fare rules:
Refundable tickets: Can be canceled anytime for a full or partial refund.
Non-refundable tickets: May incur fees, with remaining value issued as travel credit.
24-hour free cancellation: Eligible bookings can be canceled within 24 hours for a full refund (if booked at least 7 days before departure).
How do I Cancel my Singapore Airlines flight?
You can cancel your flight via the Manage Booking section on the Singapore Airlines website or by contacting customer service.
Is there a Cancellation fee for Singapore Airlines Flights?
Yes, fees vary based on:
Ticket type (refundable vs. non-refundable).
Route (domestic vs. international).
Time of cancellation (closer to departure = higher fees).
What is the Cancellation fee for Singapore Airlines economy Tickets?
Refundable economy: No fee (full refund).
Non-refundable economy: Typically $75–$300, depending on route and fare conditions.
What happens if I Cancel my flight within 24 hours of booking?
Full refund if canceled within 24 hours and booked at least 7 days before departure.
Exception: Some promotional fares may not qualify.
Can I get a Refund if I have a non-Refundable Ticket?
No cash refund, but you may receive:
Travel credit for future use (minus cancellation fee).
Partial refund if taxes/fees are refundable.
How long does it take to process a Refund from Singapore Airlines?
Credit cards: 7–20 business days.
Bank transfers: Up to 4 weeks (international).
Travel vouchers: Issued immediately.
Are there any exceptions to the Singapore Airlines Cancellation fees?
Yes, fees may be waived for:
Flight disruptions (canceled/delayed by Singapore Airlines).
Medical emergencies (with valid documentation).
Military/Government orders (with proof).
What is the no-show policy for Singapore Airlines?
No-show = Ticket forfeited (no refund/credit).
Exception: Flexible tickets may allow changes after a no-show (with fee).
How much is the no-show fee for Singapore Airlines Flights?
100% of ticket value lost (unless rescheduled in advance).
Award tickets: Miles may be forfeited.
Can I rebook my flight instead of Canceling it?
Yes! Rebooking often has lower fees than canceling:
Online: Via “Manage Booking.”
Phone: Call customer service for assistance.
What are the Cancellation charges for International Flights?
Economy: $100–$400 (depends on fare rules).
Business/First Class: $200–$600.
Award tickets: $25–$100 + mileage redeposit fee.
Do Seat Upgrades & Ancillary Purchases Get Refunded?
Yes, if canceled within 24 hours.
After 24 hours: Usually non-refundable (check fare conditions).
How Do I Check My Refund Status?
Online: Log in to your booking.
Email: Check for refund confirmation.
Phone: Call +65 6223 8888 for updates.
What If Singapore Airlines Cancels My Flight?
You’re entitled to:
Full refund OR
Free rebooking on the next available flight.
How Can I Contact Singapore Airlines for Cancellation Help?
You can contact Singapore Airlines via their customer service hotline or visit their website for support.
What If I Need to Cancel Due to a Medical Emergency?
Contact Singapore Airlines immediately.
Submit medical proof (doctor’s note, hospital report).
Request fee waiver—approved case-by-case.