Air India Refund Policy 2026: Flying Returns, Cancellations & Cash Refunds
Updated: January 10, 2026 | By Rajesh Sharma, India Expert
Quick Summary
Air India (Star Alliance, now Tata Group) has Flex fares that are refundable. Delhi/Mumbai hubs connect India. If Air India cancels, demand cash. Call 1-844-656-7300.
1. Air India Fare Types
| Fare | Changes | Refundable? |
|---|---|---|
| Value/Saver | $100+ | Credit |
| Classic/Flex | Free | ? Cash |
| Business | Free | ? Cash |
2. Flying Returns
Award tickets: Points redeposited for Silver/Gold members. Flying Returns points expire 36 months from earning.
Your Legal Rights Under DOT Regulations
Under DOT regulations, you have federal rights that airlines cannot override:
? Your Guaranteed Rights:
- 24-hour full refund: Cancel any ticket within 24 hours if booked 7+ days before departure
- Cash refund when airline cancels: Never have to accept vouchers for airline-caused cancellations
- Refund timeline: 7 business days (credit card) or 20 days (other payment methods)
- Tarmac delay protections: Must deplane after 3 hours (domestic) or 4 hours (international)
- Denied boarding compensation: $775-
3. FAQs
,550 for involuntary bumping
If denied your rights, file a complaint at airconsumer.dot.gov.
Baggage Fee Refunds
Paid for checked bags but your flight was cancelled or delayed?
- Flight cancelled by airline: Full refund of ALL baggage fees
- Bag delayed 24+ hours: Eligible for essential items reimbursement
- Bag lost permanently: Up to $3,800 liability (domestic)
Important: File claims immediately and keep all receipts.
3. FAQs
Does Air India charge change fees?
Value/Saver: $100+. Classic/Flex and Business: Free.
Can I get cash refund?
Classic/Flex and Business are refundable. Value/Saver gets credits. Air India cancels = cash.
Which US cities does Air India fly to?
Delhi/Mumbai hubs connect to: New York (JFK/NWK), Chicago, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Washington DC.
What is AIR India's refund policy for cancelled flights?
When AIR India cancels your flight, you're entitled to a full refund to your original payment method - not just a voucher. If the airline offers only credit, you can insist on cash back. For schedule changes over 2 hours, refund rights typically apply. Call 1-844-656-7300 for help enforcing your refund.
Does AIR India charge change fees?
Change fee policies vary by fare class and route. Many AIR India fares now allow free changes (you pay only fare difference), while basic/light fares may still have restrictions. The 24-hour DOT cancellation rule applies to all US departures. Contact us at 1-844-656-7300 for your specific ticket.
How do I contact AIR India customer service?
Skip the long hold times. Our travel specialists at 1-844-656-7300 have direct access to AIR India reservation systems and can resolve issues faster than the general customer service line. We're available 24/7 for urgent travel situations.