Cathay Pacific Refund Policy 2026: Asia Miles, Cancellations & Cash Refunds
Updated: January 10, 2026 | By David Wong, Hong Kong Expert
Quick Summary
Cathay Pacific (oneworld, American partner) has Flex fares that are refundable. Hong Kong hub connects Asia. If Cathay cancels, demand cash. Call 1-844-656-7300.
1. Cathay Pacific Fare Types
| Fare | Changes | Refundable? |
|---|---|---|
| Light | $150+ | Credit |
| Flex | Free | ? Cash |
| Business/First | Free | ? Cash |
2. Asia Miles
Award tickets: Miles redeposited for Marco Polo Club members. Asia Miles never expire with account activity every 18 months.
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 Cathay charge change fees?
Light: $150+. Flex and premium: Free.
Can I get cash refund?
Flex and premium are refundable. Light gets credits. Cathay cancels = cash.
Which US cities does Cathay fly to?
Hong Kong hub connects to: New York (JFK), Los Angeles, San Francisco, Chicago, Boston.
What is Cathay Pacific's refund policy for cancelled flights?
When Cathay Pacific 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 Cathay Pacific charge change fees?
Change fee policies vary by fare class and route. Many Cathay Pacific 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 Cathay Pacific customer service?
Skip the long hold times. Our travel specialists at 1-844-656-7300 have direct access to Cathay Pacific reservation systems and can resolve issues faster than the general customer service line. We're available 24/7 for urgent travel situations.