top of page
Oct 14, 20244 min read

How to Cancel United Airlines Flights & Get Refund Policy

 Introduction to United Airlines Change Flight Policy

United Airlines understands that travel plans can change unexpectedly. Whether due to unforeseen circumstances, shifting schedules, or personal choice, United's flight change policy is designed to be as flexible as possible, enabling passengers to adjust their travel dates or times with relative ease. Understanding the nuances of this policy can make it easier for travelers to navigate their options.

The United Airlines change flight policy allows passengers to modify their booking with or without fees depending on several factors:

  • Type of Fare Purchased: Basic Economy, Economy, Premium Economy, Business, and First-Class all have different guidelines and fee structures.

  • Membership Status: MileagePlus members or those with Premier Status may be eligible for waived or reduced fees.

  • Time of Change: Fees and availability for changing flights may depend on how soon before departure the change is made.

  • Destination and Route: International flights and special routes might have unique rules or restrictions.

For a full understanding of what applies to you, contacting United Airlines' customer service directly at +1-888-829-1467 is highly recommended.

3. Fee Structure and Exceptions

United Change Fees:

  • No-Change Fee on Most Economy and Premium Tickets: United Airlines has eliminated change fees for standard Economy and Premium tickets on domestic flights and select international routes.

  • Basic Economy Tickets: These tickets typically do not permit changes, though exceptions may be available. Contact United’s customer support at +1-888-829-1467 for specifics regarding your itinerary.

Same-Day Changes: United allows same-day flight changes for a fee, with certain conditions:

  • Changes must be requested within 24 hours of the originally scheduled flight time.

  • The new flight must be on the same route and between the same airports.

  • Fees for same-day changes vary, and it’s often best to check directly with United at +1-888-829-1467 to confirm the latest rates.

4. MileagePlus and Premier Status Benefits

For United MileagePlus members, especially those with elite status (Silver, Gold, Platinum, or 1K), the policy offers additional benefits:

  • Waived Fees: Many MileagePlus members are eligible for waived or reduced change fees on certain fares.

  • Priority Access: Priority is often given to elite status members for standby or waitlist options.

If you’re a MileagePlus member considering a change, contact United at +1-888-829-1467 to see how your status may affect your change options and any applicable fees.

5. Changing Flights Due to COVID-19

During the pandemic, United Airlines adapted its change policies to offer maximum flexibility. While COVID-specific policies have mostly expired, certain routes or situations may still allow for more flexibility. Contact United at +1-888-829-1467 if your change request is related to COVID-19 concerns.

6. How to Change Your United Flight

Online Changes:

  • Log into your United MileagePlus account or enter your reservation details under "Manage Reservations" on United's website.

  • Choose the “Change Flight” option and follow prompts to select new flights and pay any applicable fare differences.

Mobile App:

  • Open the United app and navigate to “My Trips” to locate your booking.

  • Follow the prompts to modify your itinerary or call +1-888-829-1467 for further assistance.

Customer Service:

7. Refundable vs. Non-Refundable Ticket Changes

Refundable Tickets:

  • These tickets offer full flexibility and can be changed without fees, although fare differences may apply. Refunds are generally issued to the original form of payment.

Non-Refundable Tickets:

  • Non-refundable tickets may incur fare differences for changes. However, United’s waived change fee policy for domestic and some international flights helps make non-refundable tickets more flexible.

8. Changing Award Tickets

MileagePlus members who have booked award tickets with miles are also eligible for flight changes:

  • Waived Change Fees: For award tickets within the U.S. and on select international routes, United no longer charges change fees.

  • Same-Day Changes: For same-day changes, contact United customer service at +1-888-829-1467 to discuss your options.

9. Key Points for Group Bookings

If you booked as part of a group, your change options may differ slightly from individual bookings:

  • Group Reservation Changes: Changes to group bookings may be subject to specific policies. Contact United’s group booking assistance at +1-888-829-1467 to understand your options.

10. When to Contact United Airlines Customer Support (+1-888-829-1467)

While many changes can be made online, certain situations warrant calling United Airlines directly:

  • Special Assistance Needs: For passengers with specific needs, contacting support ensures any necessary accommodations.

  • Last-Minute Emergencies: In urgent cases, calling United at +1-888-829-1467 can help expedite the process.

  • Fare and Policy Clarifications: If you’re unclear about fees or ticket types, United’s representatives can clarify.

Conclusion

United Airlines’ flight change policy offers a range of flexible options suited to various passenger needs. Whether traveling domestically or internationally, United strives to provide passengers with adaptable solutions to manage changes with minimal stress. If you have additional questions or require assistance, you can always reach out to United Airlines' customer support at +1-888-829-1467.

Comments

bottom of page