Qatar Airways does not have a universal free cancellation policy, but it does allow free cancellations under certain conditions. One of the main options is the 24-hour cancellation rule, which applies if a booking is made at least seven days before departure. Under this rule, customers can cancel their reservation within 24 hours of booking without incurring any cancellation fees. This benefit is generally available for tickets purchased directly through Qatar Airways’ official website or customer service channels. However, this 24-hour grace period does not apply to tickets booked with frequent flyer miles, travel credits, or gift vouchers. Outside this window, cancellation policies depend on the fare type purchased. For example, fully flexible or higher-tier tickets such as Economy Comfort, Business Elite, or First Class typically offer more generous terms, including the ability to cancel without penalty or with minimal fees. In contrast, lower fare categories like Economy Lite are often non-refundable, meaning cancellations result in forfeiting the full ticket amount. Qatar Airways may also waive cancellation fees in specific situations, such as the death of a close family member, provided valid documentation is submitted. Additionally, if a flight is significantly delayed or cancelled by the airline, passengers may be entitled to cancel the ticket and receive a refund without penalties. In such cases, if the delay exceeds five hours or if no suitable alternative flight is offered, the refund is typically granted for the unused portion of the ticket. It is important to note that refund eligibility also depends on whether the flight disruption is within the airline’s control. For example, operational issues may lead to free cancellations, but weather-related disruptions might not qualify. Each fare type has detailed terms and conditions that define whether cancellation is allowed, what fees may apply, and how refunds are processed. These terms are made available at the time of booking and can also be found in the confirmation email. Refunds for eligible cancellations are usually processed to the original form of payment, although the timeframe may vary. Customers should carefully check the fare rules before making a reservation to understand the flexibility of their ticket. Moreover, travelers are encouraged to purchase travel insurance for additional coverage in case they need to cancel for personal reasons not covered by Qatar Airways' policy. Overall, while Qatar Airways does not offer a blanket free cancellation policy, there are clear situations where cancellation without fees is possible, primarily through the 24-hour window, specific fare classes, or special circumstances like bereavement or major delays. Understanding the exact terms of the purchased fare is crucial for determining whether free cancellation is available.