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You can usually select your seat during booking or by managing your booking online. Some airlines may charge a fee for selecting a seat.

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Report lost or delayed baggage at the airline’s baggage counter as soon as you land. They will provide a tracking ID and updates on the status of your baggage.

Air France Refund Policy

By flightshelpcenter

Published on September 18, 2025

When it comes to flight cancellations, knowing the Air France refund policy is essential for travelers who want to save both time and money. Air France has developed a customer-focused refund process that caters to different types of tickets, ensuring transparency and flexibility. In this detailed guide, we will cover refund eligibility, refund request procedures, cancellation rules, refund timelines, fees, and important tips to maximize your refund options.

Quick Summary

Air France’s refund policy lets passengers claim refunds based on ticket type, fare conditions, and cancellation timing. Passengers with refundable tickets usually receive a full refund, while those with non-refundable tickets may only recover taxes and fees. Air France grants a 24-hour risk-free cancellation for bookings made at least seven days before departure. Passengers can request refunds online, through the app, by contacting customer service, or at airport counters, and the airline processes these within 7 to 20 business days. If Air France cancels a flight, delays it by more than 5 hours, or denies boarding, passengers receive a full refund and may claim compensation under EU Regulation 261/2004. Travelers with flexible tickets, travel vouchers, or travel insurance gain additional protection and options for managing changes.

Understanding Air France Refund Eligibility

Air France refunds depend largely on the ticket type, fare conditions, and the reason for cancellation. Not all tickets are refundable, so it is crucial to check your booking details before making any cancellation requests.

Refundable Tickets: Premium fares and flexible tickets usually come with free cancellation and full refund.
Non-Refundable Tickets: Most discounted or promotional tickets are non-refundable. However, travelers may still be eligible for a refund of unused taxes and fees.
Special Cases: Certain circumstances such as medical emergencies, flight disruptions by Air France, or denied boarding may entitle passengers to a full refund regardless of ticket type.

Air France 24-Hour Risk-Free Cancellation Policy

Air France offers passengers a 24-hour grace period after booking a ticket. This policy allows travelers to cancel their reservation within 24 hours of purchase and receive a full refund without any cancellation fee.

However, there is an important condition: the scheduled departure of your flight must be at least seven days (168 hours) after the booking date. This means if you book a ticket for a flight departing in less than a week, the 24-hour risk-free cancellation policy will not apply.

Key Points to Remember:

Applies only to tickets booked directly with Air France (website, app, or call center).
Cancellation must be made within 24 hours of purchase.
The flight must be scheduled at least seven days after booking.
Refund is 100% of the ticket price with no deductions or fees.

This policy is especially useful for travelers who book flights early but may need to adjust plans within a short time.

Air France Refund Policy by Ticket Type

1. Economy Class Tickets

Economy Class is the most affordable option but also the most restrictive when it comes to refunds.

Standard Economy Fares are generally non-refundable, meaning if you cancel, you will not receive your money back except for unused taxes and fees.
Flexible Economy Fares, however, allow more freedom. If you cancel, you may be eligible for a refund, but cancellation fees are usually deducted.
Since conditions vary, passengers should always review the fare rules at the time of booking to know if refunds are permitted.

2. Premium Economy Class Tickets

Premium Economy strikes a balance between affordability and flexibility.

These fares usually provide greater refund flexibility compared to standard Economy tickets.
Depending on whether you booked a standard or flexible Premium Economy ticket, you may receive either a partial refund (after fees) or a full refund.
While fees can still apply, Premium Economy passengers generally have more options to cancel and recover their money.

3. Business Class Tickets

Business Class tickets are designed for comfort and convenience, and that extends to refund policies.

Many Business Class fares are refundable, with minimal or no cancellation fees if booked under flexible conditions.
Even non-flexible Business Class tickets often provide better refund options compared to Economy or Premium Economy.
This makes Business Class an ideal choice for frequent travelers or those needing flexibility in their travel plans.

4. First Class (La Première) Tickets

La Première, Air France’s exclusive First Class service, offers the highest level of flexibility.

Almost all La Première tickets are fully refundable without penalties, giving passengers maximum control over their travel.
Since these tickets are premium-priced, Air France ensures passengers receive full flexibility and no restrictions when it comes to cancellations and refunds.

How to Request a Refund from Air France

Air France provides multiple channels to make refund requests, ensuring convenience for passengers worldwide.

Online Refund Request: Visit the official Air France website, log in to “My Bookings,” and select the cancellation option. Eligible refunds are processed after verification.
Mobile App: The Air France app allows customers to easily cancel flights and apply for refunds directly from their smartphones.
Customer Service: Call the Air France customer care team for personalized assistance with refunds, especially in complex cases such as disrupted flights or involuntary cancellations.
Airport Ticket Counter: Refund requests can also be processed at Air France counters in major airports.

Refund Processing Time with Air France

The time it takes to receive your refund depends on your payment method:

Credit/Debit Card Payments: Typically processed within 7 business days.
Cash or Check Payments: Can take up to 20 business days.
Travel Agency Bookings: Refunds for tickets purchased via third-party agencies may take longer, and passengers must coordinate directly with the agency.

Air France Refund Policy for Involuntary Cancellations

If Air France cancels your flight because of operational issues, weather conditions, or government restrictions, you receive a full refund without penalties. You can also choose to rebook on an alternative flight at no additional cost.

Air France Refund Fees and Deductions

Refund fees vary depending on the fare type and cancellation timing. Key points include:

Economy Non-Flexible Tickets: No refund except unused taxes.
Flexible Tickets: Minimal or no cancellation fee.
Partially Used Tickets: Refund is calculated based on the unused portion of the trip.
No-Show Cases: If a passenger fails to board without prior cancellation, refunds are generally not provided.

EU Passenger Rights and Compensation

Since Air France operates under EU Regulation 261/2004, passengers flying within or from the EU enjoy additional protection:

If your flight is canceled or delayed more than 5 hours, you may request a full refund.
If denied boarding due to overbooking, Air France must either rebook you or issue a full refund along with compensation up to €600, depending on flight distance.

Air France Travel Voucher Option

Instead of a cash refund, Air France sometimes offers travel vouchers. These vouchers can be used for future bookings and may include bonus credit incentives. While useful for frequent travelers, passengers who prefer cash should always request a monetary refund.

Tips to Maximize Your Refund with Air France

Book Flexible Fares: While slightly more expensive, flexible fares provide peace of mind with refundable options.
Act Within 24 Hours: Use the risk-free cancellation policy whenever possible.
Check Fare Conditions Before Booking: Always review refund terms clearly displayed during purchase.
Use Travel Insurance: In case of medical or emergency cancellations, travel insurance may cover non-refundable tickets.
Keep Documentation: Save receipts, medical certificates, or official notices in case you need to prove eligibility for a refund.

Final Thoughts on Air France Refund Policy

Air France designed its refund policy to provide flexibility while balancing the conditions of different fare classes. Passengers who book flexible or premium fares enjoy the most benefits, while those with non-refundable tickets can still reclaim taxes and fees. When you understand your rights and follow the correct procedures, you ensure a smooth refund process with Air France.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I get a full refund if I cancel my flight?

Yes, if you purchased a refundable or flexible ticket, you can receive a full refund. Non-refundable tickets usually only return taxes and fees unless canceled within 24 hours of booking.

Is Air France compensation for cancellation?

Yes. Under EU Regulation 261/2004, passengers may receive compensation (up to €600) if Air France cancels a flight or causes major delays, in addition to a refund.

What is the refund policy in France?

French airlines, including Air France, follow EU laws that require refunds for canceled flights, significant delays, or denied boarding. Refunds depend on fare rules and the reason for cancellation.

Can I get a voucher for a non-refundable flight with Air France?

Yes. Air France often provides travel vouchers for non-refundable tickets. These can be used for future bookings, sometimes with bonus credit.

Is there a way to get a refund on a non-refundable airline ticket?

Normally, non-refundable tickets do not qualify for a cash refund. However, you may still claim unused taxes or request a voucher. Exceptions apply in cases like medical emergencies or airline-initiated cancellations.

What is a non-refundable travel voucher?

A non-refundable travel voucher is credit issued by Air France instead of cash, which must be used for a future flight booking.

How to get a refund from Air France?

You can request a refund via the Air France website, mobile app, customer service hotline, or airport ticket counter.

What is the return and refund policy?

Air France’s return and refund policy varies by fare type. Refundable fares allow full refunds, while non-refundable fares typically only allow tax refunds or vouchers.

What is a typical refund timeframe?

Refunds to cards take about 7 business days, while cash or check payments may take up to 20 business days.

Is Air France Economy refundable?

Most Economy fares are non-refundable, except flexible Economy tickets, which may qualify for refunds with a cancellation fee.

Does Air France have free cancellation within 24 hours?

Yes. Air France allows a risk-free cancellation within 24 hours of booking for flights scheduled at least seven days later.

Is there a refund for air ticket cancellation?

Yes, but it depends on your fare. Refundable tickets get full refunds, while non-refundable ones only allow partial refunds (like taxes) or vouchers.