Life happens—plans change, health appointments pop up, or sometimes you just don’t feel like traveling anymore. For seniors especially, flexibility is key when booking flights. If you’re flying with Etihad Airways, understanding their cancellation policy can help you avoid stress and make confident decisions.
And if you’d rather not sort through the fine print on your own, you can always call (877)764-3622 for guided assistance.
Airline terms can be confusing, with pages of rules written in tiny print. For older travelers, this can make it harder to know what’s allowed and what isn’t.
A survey from AARP found that more than half of seniors value flexible travel options, especially when health or family needs can suddenly change.
Take Mr. Howard, 69, who once booked a non-refundable ticket. When he had to cancel, he discovered he wasn’t eligible for cash back—only a voucher. “If I had known the rules clearly, I would’ve booked a flexible fare,” he said.
Here’s the breakdown of how Etihad handles cancellations:
Refundable tickets: You may get all or most of your money back.
Non-refundable tickets: Often no cash refund, but you might receive a voucher for future travel.
If you booked your flight in the US, Etihad usually allows free cancellation within 24 hours of purchase—no penalty.
Flexible fares: Lower or sometimes no fees.
Saver/discounted fares: Higher fees, or only a credit voucher option.
Approved refunds generally take 7–14 business days to appear in your account.
💡 Pro Tip: Always check the fare rules before booking—what looks cheaper upfront may cost more later if you need flexibility.
Cancelling online is possible in just a few steps:
Click on “Manage Booking.”
Enter your booking reference and last name.
Select the flight you’d like to cancel.
Review the terms and confirm cancellation.
Save or print your cancellation confirmation.
👉 If this feels complicated, you can always call (877)764-3622 for personal assistance.
When Etihad cancels or when you cancel under the rules, you may be offered a refund or a voucher. Here’s the difference:
Refunds: Money back to your original payment method. Best choice for seniors on a fixed income.
Vouchers: Credit toward future travel, sometimes with flexibility but often with an expiration date.
Example: Mrs. Allen, 71, accepted a voucher but forgot to use it before the deadline, losing its full value. For seniors, refunds may be safer unless you know you’ll be traveling soon.
Cancel early to avoid higher fees.
Use a larger screen (tablet or computer) to make website navigation easier.
Save or print confirmation emails right away.
Ask for help from a trusted family member if you’re unsure.
Read fare rules before booking, especially if you expect possible changes.
Can I cancel by phone instead of online?
Yes, many seniors find this easier.
Does Etihad allow free same-day cancellations?
Yes, usually within 24 hours of booking.
How long does it take to get my refund?
Typically 7–14 business days.
What if I booked through a travel agent?
You’ll need to contact the agent directly.
Can someone else cancel my booking for me?
Yes, if they have your booking reference and last name.