Norse Atlantic Airways, a relatively new low-cost carrier based in Europe, has established a cancellation policy that is designed to provide some flexibility to passengers while balancing the budget-friendly nature of their fare structure. As a low-cost airline, Norse Atlantic focuses on offering affordable flights, but this also means that the cancellation policy varies depending on the type of ticket purchased. While the airline aims to make booking and changes as straightforward as possible, there are specific rules and fees that passengers should be aware of before canceling or altering their flight plans.
For non-refundable tickets, which are the most common option for budget-conscious travelers, Norse Atlantic typically does not offer a direct refund if you cancel your flight. However, if you cancel your non-refundable ticket, you may be eligible for a travel credit or voucher that can be applied toward a future flight with the airline. This credit is generally valid for up to 12 months from the original booking date, allowing some flexibility in rescheduling. It’s important to note that cancellation fees may apply, especially if the cancellation is made close to the departure date. The fees for canceling a non-refundable ticket can range from €50 to €200 depending on the route, class of service, and the timing of the cancellation. If you cancel very close to the departure time, there is a chance that you could forfeit the entire ticket amount, so it’s advisable to cancel well in advance if possible. Unlike some other carriers, Norse Atlantic does not offer much flexibility for Basic Economy tickets, which are often the most restrictive.
If you cancel a non-refundable ticket within 24 hours of booking, you can typically get a full refund to your original payment method, as long as the flight is scheduled to depart at least 7 days later. This policy is aligned with the 24-hour cancellation rule that applies to many airlines operating in the United States and is intended to provide a brief window for passengers to change their minds after booking. If you decide to cancel within this period, you can usually do so without paying any cancellation fees, making it an excellent option for those who may need to adjust their plans shortly after booking.
For refundable tickets, the cancellation policy is more generous. If you’ve purchased a refundable fare, you can cancel your flight at any time prior to departure and receive a full refund without any cancellation fees. Refundable tickets are more expensive than non-refundable ones, but they offer the flexibility to cancel or change your plans without incurring penalties, which can be a significant advantage for travelers with unpredictable schedules. While refundable tickets allow you to cancel and receive your money back, keep in mind that any fare differences or taxes may apply if you change your booking instead of canceling it entirely.
Norse Atlantic also offers some flexibility if the airline itself has to make changes to your flight. If the airline cancels or significantly alters the schedule of your flight, you are entitled to a full refund, regardless of whether you purchased a refundable or non-refundable ticket. If the change is due to reasons within the airline’s control, such as operational issues or scheduling problems, you will be notified in advance and given the option to either accept an alternative flight or request a refund. In cases where the cancellation or schedule change is beyond the airline’s control, such as due to bad weather or other external factors, the airline may not provide refunds, but they will likely offer to rebook you on the next available flight at no additional charge.
For those who need to change their flight, Norse Atlantic allows changes to be made, though they typically come with a change fee. These fees vary depending on the route and class of service, and you will also need to pay any fare difference if the new ticket is more expensive than your original booking. Change fees are generally lower than cancellation fees, so in some cases, it may be more economical to change your flight rather than cancel it, especially if your plans are still flexible but you need to adjust your travel dates.
Additionally, if you need to cancel your flight due to special circumstances such as a medical emergency or the death of a family member, Norse Atlantic may waive cancellation fees or offer a refund. However, you will likely need to provide appropriate documentation to support your claim, such as a doctor’s note or a death certificate. In these cases, it’s important to contact the airline’s customer service department as soon as possible to explain the situation and inquire about the specific steps to take. While such situations are typically handled on a case-by-case basis, airlines like Norse Atlantic often provide some level of flexibility in such exceptional circumstances.
In summary, Norse Atlantic Airways offers a straightforward cancellation policy that balances flexibility with the low-cost nature of its fares. For non-refundable tickets, you can expect a travel credit minus cancellation fees if you cancel, with the possibility of a full refund if you cancel within 24 hours of booking. Refundable tickets allow for a full refund with no penalties, offering more flexibility for travelers who may need to adjust their plans. If Norse Atlantic cancels or significantly changes your flight, you are entitled to a full refund or rebooking. Lastly, if you are faced with special circumstances, such as medical emergencies, the airline may offer fee waivers or refunds with appropriate documentation. It’s always advisable to read the specific terms and conditions associated with your fare type when booking with Norse Atlantic to fully understand your options in the event of a cancellation.