Air India Change Flight Policy – Fees, Rules & How to Modify

When travel plans change, flexibility becomes essential. Air India Change Flight Policy offers a range of options for passengers looking to modify their bookings. Whether it's a domestic journey or an international route, understanding how, when, and what you can change in your Air India flight can save time and money.

Below, we provide an in-depth look at the Air India Flight Change Policy, including charges, process, conditions, and expert tips to make the process seamless.

What Is Air India Change Flight Policy?

The Air India Change Flight Policy allows passengers to alter their travel plans without canceling the booking entirely. This includes changing the date, time, or even the destination of your flight, depending on fare rules and availability.

Air India has revised its policies to accommodate frequent changes due to unforeseen events, especially in the post-pandemic era. While some changes may attract a fee, others may be free within certain conditions.

Key Features of Air India Change Flight Policy

• Date and Time Changes: Passengers can reschedule their flights based on seat availability.

• Destination Change: Allowed on select fare classes, usually with an additional fare difference.

• Change Window: Modifications must be made within the time limit specified in the fare rules.

• Change Fees: Depend on fare type, route (domestic or international), and time left before departure.

• Online and Offline Options: Changes can be made via Air India’s official website, mobile app, call center, or ticketing offices.

Air India Flight Change Policy for Domestic Routes

For domestic flights within India, the policy provides flexibility depending on the fare category. Here’s a breakdown:

• Super Value Fare: Changes allowed with a nominal fee and fare difference.

• Flexi Saver Fare: One free change often allowed; subsequent changes attract a fee.

• Business Class: Offers highest flexibility with minimal change fees.

Change Fees for Domestic Flights:

• 24+ hours before departure: ₹2,000–₹3,000 depending on the fare class.

• Less than 24 hours: Higher fees or no change allowed in some basic economy classes.

Always check the fare conditions at the time of booking to avoid surprises.

Air India Change Flight Policy for International Travel

Changing an international Air India flight involves a more layered policy due to interline agreements, visa issues, and route complexity.

Rules for International Flights:

• Date and Time Changes: Allowed with applicable fees and fare differences.

• Route Changes: Possible if within the same region or alliance network.

• Advance Notice Required: Minimum 72 hours before departure for most fare types.

Change Fees for International Routes:

• Economy: USD $100–$250 depending on the region.

• Business/First Class: More lenient, with lower fees or free changes.

For tickets involving partner airlines (Star Alliance), additional rules may apply.

Can You Change a Flight After Check-In?

Air India does not allow flight changes once you’ve checked in, either online or at the airport. If you wish to reschedule, do it before initiating check-in. If you miss this window, your ticket might be marked as a “no-show,” and you may lose part or all of the fare.

No-Show and Same-Day Change Policy

If a passenger fails to show up for their flight without making changes in advance:

• No-show penalties apply

• No refund on some non-refundable fare types

• Same-day change requests must be made at least 4 hours before departure

Some premium fare types allow same-day confirmed changes for a fee, subject to seat availability.

COVID-19 Flexibility Extensions (If Applicable)

In specific cases, such as government lockdowns or public health emergencies, Air India may waive change fees. Passengers should refer to temporary advisories issued on the airline’s website or subscribe to alerts.

Refund vs. Flight Change – Which is Better?

When plans change, consider these factors before choosing between refund or rescheduling:

• Refunds on Non-Refundable Tickets: Typically not available unless there is a special condition.

• Flight Change: More flexible, especially if your future travel date is certain.

Use the change option to retain travel value, especially for international long-haul flights where fare differences can be significant.

Tips to Avoid Air India Flight Change Fees

• Book Flex Fare Options: They allow free or lower-cost changes.

• Use Travel Insurance: Some policies cover change/cancellation fees.

• Modify Early: Changes made well in advance tend to cost less.

• Avoid Check-In Before Changes: Once checked in, modifications are not allowed.

• Stay Informed: Sign up for alerts to know about policy updates or fee waivers.

Conclusion

The Air India Change Flight Policy offers ample flexibility for both domestic and international passengers. By understanding the conditions and taking timely action, travelers can avoid penalties and retain the value of their bookings. Whether through the website, app, or support centers, Air India provides multiple channels to make flight changes easy and convenient.