Planning a trip to the rugged, beautiful landscapes of Southeast Alaska is exciting, but let’s be honest—logistics in the Last Frontier can be a bit unpredictable. Whether you are booking a flightseeing tour over Misty Fjords or catching a scheduled commuter flight to a nearby village, understanding the Taquan Air Cancellation Policy is essential.

Since weather and plans change faster than a Ketchikan tide, knowing where you stand with refunds and flight changes will save you a lot of stress. This guide breaks down the rules so you can book with confidence and manage your itinerary without the headache.

The Basics of Canceling with Taquan Air

Taquan Air operates a variety of services, ranging from scheduled passenger flights to specialized bear-viewing tours and private charters. Because these services are so different, the cancellation rules vary depending on what you’ve booked.

Scheduled Passenger Flights

For those using Taquan for regional travel between Ketchikan and spots like Metlakatla or Hollis, the policy is generally more flexible than tour bookings, but it still requires some lead time.

• 24-Hour Rule: For most scheduled web bookings, changes and cancellations are permitted up until 24 hours prior to the date of service.

• Fees: If you cancel or change your flight within the allowed window, a $25 per person fee typically applies.

• No-Shows: If you don’t show up for your flight and haven't notified the airline, you are considered a "no-show." In this case, the full fare is usually forfeited, though you may be allowed to fly standby on a later flight at no extra charge (subject to seat availability).

Flightseeing and Adventure Tours

If you’ve booked a tour (like the Misty Fjords Flightseeing or a Bear Adventure), the window for a refund is much wider.

• 14-Day Requirement: To receive a refund (minus a $25 per person fee), you must cancel at least 14 days before your scheduled tour.

• Late Cancellations: If you cancel within that 14-day window, or if you are a no-show, the full fare is charged, and no refund is issued.

How to Change Your Flight

Life happens, and sometimes you just need to shift your departure time. Taquan Air allows for itinerary changes, provided there is space on the new flight you’re eyeing.

Making the Switch

To change a flight, it is best to call their reservation desk directly at 907-225-8800. If you booked through a third party like a cruise line or a travel agency, you’ll need to contact them first, as their internal policies might override the airline’s standard rules.

Fare Differences and Fees

When you change your itinerary:

1. Fare Increase: If the new flight is more expensive than your original one, you’ll have to pay the difference at the time of the change.

2. Change Fee: The standard $25 fee applies to changes made to scheduled flights, assuming you are outside the 24-hour lockout period.

The "Alaska Factor": Weather Cancellations

In Southeast Alaska, weather isn't just a conversation starter; it’s a major factor in aviation. Taquan Air flies floatplanes and small wheeled aircraft that are highly dependent on visibility and wind conditions.

If Taquan Cancels Your Flight

If the pilot or dispatch team determines that conditions are unsafe to fly, they will cancel the flight. In this scenario, the ball is in your court:

• Reschedule: You can move to the next available flight at no extra cost.

• Credit: You can leave your ticket "open" as a credit, typically valid for up to one year from the original date of issuance.

• Full Refund: If rescheduling doesn't work for your timeline, you are entitled to a 100% refund.

Note: If you are due a refund for a weather-related cancellation, it usually takes about 7 to 10 business days for the funds to process back to your original payment method.

Important Check-In and "No-Show" Rules

The Taquan Air Cancellation Policy is strictly tied to their check-in requirements. Being late can lead to a "no-show" status, even if you are physically at the terminal just a few minutes after the cutoff.

• Arrival Time: You are expected to check in at least 30 to 45 minutes before departure. This is crucial because all passengers and bags must be weighed for aircraft balance.

• The 15-Minute Cutoff: Flights typically "close" 15 minutes before departure. If you aren't checked in by then, your seat may be given to a standby passenger.

• Weight Requirements: Remember that individual weights (including clothes and gear) are required by the FAA. If you significantly exceed the weight provided during booking without notice, it could lead to a seat forfeiture if the plane's balance is compromised.

Refund Policy for Charters

Chartering a whole plane is a different beast entirely. Since the airline is holding a specific aircraft and pilot for your group, the stakes are higher.

• Deposit: Usually, a 50% deposit is required to hold a charter.

• Cancellation Window: You can typically cancel a charter up to 48 hours (2 days) before the flight without a penalty.

• Late Cancellation: If you cancel a charter within 48 hours of departure, you will likely forfeit the entire deposit.

Quick Reference Table: Cancellation Deadlines

Tips for a Smooth Experience

To avoid any issues with the Taquan Air Cancellation Policy, keep these tips in mind:

1. Book Directly if Possible: While cruise lines offer convenience, booking directly through the Taquan Air website or reservation line often gives you more direct control over your booking if you need to make a last-minute change.

2. Travel Insurance: Given that Alaska's weather can delay not just your bush flight but also your main carrier or cruise ship, travel insurance is a wise investment. It can cover the "non-refundable" portion of your fare if you miss the flight due to circumstances out of your control.

3. Communication is Key: If you know you’re going to be late or your plans have shifted, call them immediately. The folks in the Ketchikan office are used to the logistical puzzles of bush flying and will usually try to help you out if you give them enough lead time.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if my cruise ship is late to port?

Taquan Air works closely with the major cruise lines. If you booked your tour through the ship, they will coordinate. If you booked independently, you should call Taquan as soon as you know there is a delay.

Can I get a refund if I just change my mind?

Yes, as long as you are outside the cancellation window (24 hours for flights, 14 days for tours). You'll just pay the $25 processing fee.

How do I contact them for a refund?

The most efficient way is to email reservations@taquanair.com with your booking number or call their main office in Ketchikan.