How Much Does It Cost to Change Flights on Korean Air?

When your travel plans change unexpectedly, one of the first things you may need to consider is altering your flight. If you’re flying with Korean Air, understanding their flight change policy and the associated costs can help you make an informed decision. Here’s everything you need to know about changing flights with Korean Air.

1. Korean Air’s Flight Change Policy

Korean Air provides flexibility when it comes to changing your flight, but the conditions and fees depend on the type of ticket you purchased, the fare rules, and the timing of your request.

Ticket Types: Korean Air offers various ticket types, and the flexibility to change your flight may differ based on the fare class. Generally, the most flexible tickets (such as Full Fare economy and business class) allow for changes with fewer restrictions and lower fees. In contrast, discounted or promotional tickets may have higher change fees or even restrictions that prevent changes altogether.

2. Flight Change Fees

The cost of changing your flight with Korean Air depends on several factors:

• Ticket Class and Fare Type: As mentioned, full-fare tickets often come with fewer restrictions and lower change fees. Discounted or special fare tickets may carry higher fees or limited options for changes.
• Time of Change: The timing of the change can also affect the cost. Making changes closer to your departure date usually results in higher fees. It’s also important to note that changes made after the departure date may incur more significant costs.

Typically, the flight change fee ranges between $50 to $200 per person, depending on the factors mentioned above. However, if the fare difference between the original and new flight is higher than the change fee, you’ll need to pay the additional fare difference.

3. How to Change Your Flight

There are a few ways to change your flight on Korean Air:

• Online: You can change your flight through the Korean Air website or app. This is often the most convenient option and can help you avoid additional service fees.
• Customer Service: If you prefer to speak to someone, you can contact Korean Air’s customer service team for assistance with changing your flight. Note that there may be additional fees for changes made over the phone.
• Ticketing Counter at the Airport: You can also make changes at the airport, but keep in mind that this might result in higher fees and limited availability, especially close to your departure time.

4. Types of Changes You Can Make

When changing your flight with Korean Air, you can typically make the following modifications:

• Date Changes: You can change the date of your flight, subject to availability and fare differences.
• Route Changes: If you need to change your destination or add a stopover, you may need to pay for any fare differences and associated fees.
• Name Changes: Korean Air allows you to correct minor spelling errors in your name but may not permit major changes, like transferring a ticket to someone else.

5. Exceptions and Waivers

There are some exceptions and special situations where Korean Air may waive or reduce flight change fees:

• Flexible Fare Options: Korean Air’s Flexi fares offer more flexibility and may reduce or eliminate change fees.
• COVID-19 Changes: During the COVID-19 pandemic, airlines, including Korean Air, introduced more lenient policies for changing flights without penalties. However, policies may vary depending on the situation, so it’s essential to check the latest updates on the Korean Air website.
• Frequent Flyer Benefits: If you are a member of Korean Air’s Skypass frequent flyer program, you may have access to more flexibility and reduced fees for flight changes, depending on your membership tier.

6. Refundable vs. Non-Refundable Tickets

Refundable tickets typically allow for easier changes with lower fees or no fees at all. On the other hand, non-refundable tickets are subject to stricter change policies, including higher fees and potential fare differences.

If you have a non-refundable ticket but need to cancel or change your flight, you may be eligible for a partial refund or a travel voucher, depending on the circumstances.

7. Tips for Avoiding High Flight Change Fees

• Book Flexible Tickets: If your travel plans are uncertain, consider booking a flexible or refundable fare. Though more expensive initially, it may save you money in the long run.
• Book Early: Making changes early (rather than close to departure) can help you avoid high change fees and ensure more options are available.
• Check for Waivers: Always check if Korean Air is offering any waivers or special conditions that might apply to your ticket, such as during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Conclusion

Changing your flight with Korean Air can cost anywhere from $50 to $200, depending on your ticket class, timing, and route changes. While fees are typically reasonable for flexible tickets, those with special fares may face higher charges. Always review the specific terms of your ticket and consider opting for more flexible fares if you anticipate needing to adjust your plans. By planning ahead and understanding the costs involved, you can manage changes to your Korean Air flights with ease.