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What is United Airlines Cancellation Policy?

October 05, 2023

United Airlines Cancellation Policy

United Airlines offers a flexible cancellation policy designed to accommodate changes in travel plans. Whether you need to cancel or rebook a flight, the airline provides options to make the process as smooth as possible, depending on your fare type and circumstances.

Understanding the details of their cancellation policy can help you avoid unnecessary fees and make adjustments when needed.

What is United Airlines Cancellation Policy?

United Airlines' cancellation policy offers flexibility for passengers, allowing them to make adjustments or cancellations based on fare type and travel circumstances. Here's a breakdown of their main cancellation guidelines.

  • If the flight is at least seven days away, passengers can cancel it without a fee within 24 hours of booking.
  • If your ticket is refundable, you can cancel it and receive a full refund in your original payment method.
  • For non-refundable tickets, you can cancel the flight, but you will receive a travel credit for the ticket value minus a cancellation fee.
  • Depending on the ticket type and situation, if you cancel your flight on the same day of travel, you may be eligible for a full refund. If you need to change your flights, you may be charged a fee depending on the ticket type and the availability of different options.
  • Passengers may be entitled to a refund or a fee waiver in medical emergencies or United flight cancellations.

How can I cancel my United Airlines flight?

Canceling a United Airlines flight is straightforward and can be done online or through customer service. However, the process and possible fees may vary depending on your ticket type. Here are the following steps:

1. Via United Airlines Website

  • Visit the United Airlines website (www.united.com).
  • Log in to your account using your credentials.
  • Go to "My Trips" and select the flight you want to cancel.
  • Click "Cancel Flight" and follow the prompts to complete the cancellation.
  • Review the cancellation details and confirm the process. You may receive a refund or travel credit based on the type of ticket you use.

2. Via United Airlines Mobile App

  • Open the United Airlines app on your phone.
  • Tap on "My Trips" and select the flight you wish to cancel.
  • Click on "Cancel Flight" and follow the steps to finalize your cancellation.
  • You will receive an email confirming your cancellation and refund details if applicable.

3. Via Phone (Customer Service)

  • Call United Airlines customer service at 1-800-864-8331.
  •  Follow the automated prompts or speak to a representative to request your flight cancellation.
  •  Provide your booking reference or flight details for verification.
  • The representative will assist with the cancellation process and inform you about any refund or credit options.

4. At the Airport

  • Go to the United Airlines check-in counter or kiosk at the airport.
  • Provide the representative with your booking reference or flight details, or use the kiosk to find your reservation.
  • Request to cancel your flight and ask about any fees or refund options.
  • The agent will process the cancellation and provide you with the following steps regarding refunds or credits.

What is the United Flight Cancellation Fee?

United Airlines may charge a cancellation fee depending on your ticket type and the timing of the cancellation. The fee structure is designed to offer flexibility while covering operational costs.

  • Refundable Tickets

There is no cancellation fee; you will receive a full refund if you cancel before departure.

  • Non-Refundable Tickets

Non-refundable ticket Cancellation fees typically range from $200 to $500, depending on the destination and fare class.

  • Basic Economy Tickets

These tickets are generally non-refundable, and a fee may apply if you cancel or change your flight, with the fare value offered as a travel credit.

  • Same-Day Cancellation

United Airlines doesn’t charge any fee for same-day cancellation unless your fare ticket is Basic Economy.

What is the United Airlines 24-hour Cancellation policy?

The United Airlines 24-hour cancellation policy allows passengers to cancel their bookings without penalty. This policy applies to most flights and offers flexibility within the first 24 hours of booking.

  • Passengers can cancel their flight within 24 hours of booking without incurring any cancellation fees, as long as the flight is at least 7 days away.
  • The 24-hour cancellation benefit applies to refundable and non-refundable tickets, offering flexibility for travelers who change their plans quickly.
  • Passengers will receive a full refund for refundable tickets, while non-refundable tickets typically offer a travel credit.
  • The 24-hour cancellation policy only applies to bookings made directly through United Airlines (via their website, app, or customer service).

What if United Airlines cancels my flight?

If United Airlines cancels your flight, you may be eligible for a refund, rebooking, or compensation, depending on the situation. Here are the key details:

  • United will often offer to rebook you on the next available flight to your destination at no additional cost.
  • If United cannot rebook you within a reasonable timeframe, you may request a full refund for your canceled flight, even for non-refundable tickets.
  • United will notify passengers of cancellations via email, text, or phone call, and you can check flight status through their website or mobile app.

What is United Airlines Refund Policy?

The United Airlines refund policy outlines the conditions under which passengers can receive a refund for canceled or changed flights. Here are the following details:

  • Passengers with refundable tickets can cancel their flight and receive a full refund using their original payment method.
  • If you cancel a non-refundable ticket, you will generally receive a travel credit for the ticket's value, minus any cancellation fees.
  • If United cancels your flight, you are eligible for a full refund, even on non-refundable tickets.
  • For credit card payments, refunds for eligible cancellations can take up to 7 business days; other payment methods can take 20 days.

What is the United Airlines change flight policy?

The United Airlines change flight policy offers flexibility for passengers who need to adjust their travel plans. Depending on the type of ticket purchased, fees or fare differences may be involved in changing a flight.

  • If you purchased a flexible or refundable ticket, you can change your flight without incurring a change fee, though any fare difference will apply.
  • A change fee and any difference in fare between the original and new flights typically apply to non-refundable tickets.
  • Basic Economy tickets cannot be changed; however, you can cancel the flight and apply for a travel credit under specific conditions.
  • Change fees for non-refundable tickets generally range from $200 to $500, depending on the route and ticket type.
  • United allows passengers to make same-day changes for a fee if seats are available on a flight earlier or later that day.

Summing Up

United Airlines offers a range of cancellation options, allowing passengers to either receive a refund or rebook their flights based on their fare type and the situation. Knowing their policy details can help ensure a smoother process if plans change unexpectedly.

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