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Understanding Airline Change Fees vs. Cancellation Fees
Travel plans can shift for many reasons—emergencies, schedule conflicts, or even just a change of heart. In these situations, knowing the difference between airline change fees and cancellation fees can save you time, stress, and money. While the terms are sometimes used interchangeably, they involve different rules, costs, and outcomes.
This guide breaks down how airline change and cancellation fees work, which airlines have reduced or eliminated them, and how to avoid paying unnecessary charges.
5-Step Quick Checklist
- Check your fare class (Basic Economy vs. Standard Economy).
- Review airline policies before booking.
- Use airline apps for free same-day changes.
- Consider travel insurance for added protection.
- Act early to avoid paying fare differences or penalties.
What Is an Airline Change Fee?
A change fee is a charge applied when you modify an existing booking, such as:
- Changing the date or time of your flight.
- Switching to a different destination.
- Adjusting traveler names (rare and usually not permitted).
Most U.S. airlines have eliminated change fees on standard economy and higher fares for domestic flights, as well as many international routes. However, you may still encounter fees in the following scenarios:
- Basic economy fares (generally non-changeable).
- Certain international or codeshare flights.
- Third-party bookings made through online travel agencies.
When You’ll Still Pay a Change Fee
- For basic economy tickets (non-changeable in most cases).
- On some international flights or with low-cost carriers.
- If you make changes too close to departure or after check-in.
Even if the change fee is waived, you’ll need to pay any fare difference if the new ticket is more expensive.
What Is an Airline Cancellation Fee?
A cancellation fee is applied when you cancel a ticket rather than rescheduling. Depending on your fare type, you may:
- Lose part or all of the ticket value (especially with non-refundable fares).
- Receive a travel credit or voucher for future use.
- Get a refund if you purchased a refundable ticket or if the airline is required by law (e.g., for canceled flights).
Cancellation fees are most common with:
- Non-refundable or basic economy fares.
- Cancellations close to departure.
Refundable tickets, on the other hand, are typically fully reimbursed to the original payment method.
Key Differences Between Change and Cancellation Fees
| Feature | Change Fee | Cancellation Fee |
|---|---|---|
| When It Applies | Modifying flight details | Canceling the entire reservation |
| Outcome | Keeps reservation active (modified) | Trip ends; credit/refund may apply |
| Typical Cost | $0–$200 (if not waived) | Partial or full ticket value loss |
| Credit Issued? | No, flight continues | Often yes, as travel credit |
Major U.S. Airline Policies at a Glance
| Airline | Change Fees | Cancellation Policies |
|---|---|---|
| American Airlines | No change fees on most fares (except Basic Economy). | Non-refundable tickets become flight credit. Same-day changes may incur extra fees. |
| Delta Air Lines | No change fees on U.S. and many international flights (except Basic Economy). | Canceling most tickets provides future travel credit. Refundable fares are reimbursed in cash. |
| United Airlines | Waived for most flights except Basic Economy. | Credits valid up to 12 months for canceled trips. Refunds apply to refundable fares. |
| Southwest Airlines | No change or cancellation fees on any fare. | Cancel up to 10 minutes before departure for full credit (credits never expire). |
| JetBlue Airways | Waived except for Blue Basic fares. | Blue Basic incurs a cancel fee; eligible fares receive travel credit. |
| Alaska Airlines | No fees for most fares (Saver fares excluded). | Saver fares are non-refundable; other fares get credits or refunds. |
Can You Get a Refund Instead of a Credit?
You may qualify for a cash refund if:
- You purchased a refundable fare.
- The airline cancels or significantly delays your flight.
- You cancel within 24 hours of booking (U.S. DOT regulation, if flight is 7+ days away).
- Your travel insurance or credit card covers cancellations for specific reasons.
Non-refundable tickets generally only qualify for credits, minus any cancellation fees.
How to Avoid Extra Fees
- Book flexible or refundable fares if your plans may change.
- Cancel or change early to preserve ticket value.
- Use airline apps—many allow free same-day changes.
- Avoid third-party bookings that add extra change/cancel fees.
- Leverage credit card travel protections like those offered by Chase Sapphire Reserve or Amex Platinum.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I change a flight without paying a fee?
Yes, most U.S. airlines have removed change fees for standard fares. Basic economy remains the main exception.
What happens if I cancel a non-refundable ticket?
You’ll usually receive a travel credit minus any applicable fees, but not a cash refund.
What’s the difference between a credit and a refund?
A credit is applied toward a future flight. A refund goes back to your original payment method.
Are cancellation fees higher than change fees?
Typically yes. Canceling often results in losing more ticket value, whereas changes might only require paying a fare difference.
Does travel insurance cover these fees?
Yes, if your reason for canceling or changing is covered under your policy (e.g., medical emergencies).
Final Thoughts
Understanding the difference between change and cancellation fees is essential to protecting your wallet and avoiding surprises. While many airlines have eliminated change fees, strict cancellation rules still apply to non-refundable fares.
If you value flexibility, book wisely, monitor your flights, and know your rights under airline policies and U.S. DOT regulations. A proactive approach can help you save money and make last-minute changes stress-free.