Understanding the United Airlines cancellation policy can save you time, money, and stress when your travel plans change. This comprehensive guide will cover everything you need to know about cancelling your flight, including how to change your flight with United Airlines. For personalized assistance, contact United Airlines customer service at 1-888-356-5330.

United Airlines Cancellation Policy

United Airlines offers a flexible cancellation policy to accommodate the varying needs of its passengers. Here’s a detailed look at the key aspects of their cancellation policy:

24-Hour Flexible Booking Policy

United Airlines allows passengers to cancel their flights within 24 hours of booking without incurring any cancellation fees. This policy applies to all ticket types and provides a full refund as long as the booking was made at least one week prior to the departure date.

Non-Refundable Tickets

For non-refundable tickets, United Airlines provides the following options:

1. Cancellation Fees: If you cancel a non-refundable ticket after the 24-hour window, you will be charged a cancellation fee. The remaining value of the ticket will be issued as an eCredit for future travel.

2. Basic Economy Tickets: These tickets are typically non-refundable and non-changeable after the 24-hour window. However, during certain circumstances, such as COVID-19, United has allowed more flexibility with Basic Economy tickets.

Refundable Tickets

Refundable tickets offer greater flexibility. If you cancel a refundable ticket, you will receive a full refund to your original form of payment without any cancellation fees. These tickets are typically more expensive but offer peace of mind for travelers with uncertain plans.

Award Tickets

If you booked your flight using MileagePlus miles, the cancellation policies differ based on your MileagePlus status and the time of cancellation. Generally, there are no fees for cancelling award tickets if done at least 30 days before departure.

Special Circumstances

United Airlines also considers special circumstances such as:

1. Illness or Death: In cases of severe illness or death of the passenger or an immediate family member, United may waive cancellation fees. Documentation such as a medical certificate or death certificate is required.

2. Schedule Changes: If United Airlines makes significant changes to your flight schedule, you are entitled to a full refund or free rebooking on another flight.

United Airlines Change Flight Policy

Sometimes, instead of cancelling, you might need to change your flight. The United Airlines change flight policy offers various options to suit different needs.

Change Fees

1. Domestic Flights: For most domestic flights, United Airlines has eliminated change fees for standard Economy and Premium cabin tickets. Basic Economy tickets are typically non-changeable.

2. International Flights: Change fees for international flights depend on the fare class and route. Many international tickets also now enjoy waived change fees, especially if booked from the U.S.

3. Same-Day Changes: United Airlines offers same-day flight changes for a reduced fee, subject to availability. This option is available within 24 hours of your originally scheduled departure.

How to Change a Flight

To change your flight with United Airlines, follow these steps:

1. Access Your Booking: Go to the United Airlines website or mobile app and log in to your MileagePlus account. Navigate to "My Trips" to access your booking.

2. Select New Flight: Choose the flight you wish to change to. Ensure it meets your travel needs and is available.

3. Pay Fees and Fare Difference: If applicable, pay any change fees and the fare difference. Confirm the new booking details.

4. Confirmation: You will receive a confirmation email with your new flight details.

Tips for Changing Flights

1. Flexibility: Be flexible with your dates and times to find the best options without significant fare differences.

2. Book Directly with United: Making changes is easier if you booked directly with United Airlines rather than through a third-party site.

3. Monitor Prices: Keep an eye on flight prices as sometimes the fare difference can be substantial.

How to Contact United Airlines

For any questions or assistance with cancellations or flight changes, United Airlines customer service is available to help. Reach out to them at 1-888-356-5330.

Conclusion

Navigating the United Airlines cancellation policy and understanding how to change flights with United Airlines can greatly ease your travel planning and adjustments. Whether you need to cancel due to unforeseen circumstances or change your travel dates, United Airlines offers flexible options to accommodate your needs. For more detailed information or to make changes to your booking, visit the United Airlines website or contact their customer service team.