How to Cancel a Flight on American Airlines?

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By Elena Porter
Updated July 05, 2024 9:45 AM EST

Plans changed with American Airlines? Don't worry; canceling an American Airlines flight doesn't have to be a nightmare. We're here to save you the head-scratching and help you navigate the American Airlines cancellation policy smoothly. From understanding the 24-hour cancellation window to knowing your refund options, we've got all the details you need to make your cancellation easy-peasy.

What Is American Airlines' Cancellation Policy?

Understanding the complex terms and conditions of an airline's cancellation policy can be a challenge. To save you the trouble, we've jotted down the key points of American Airlines' flight cancellation policy for you:

24-Hour Cancellation Window:

American Airlines' 24-hour cancellation policy allows cancellations within 24 hours of purchase for all tickets booked at least two days before departure.

Refundable Tickets:

Refundable tickets allow you to cancel anytime and receive a full refund. You can request this refund online or by contacting American Airlines reservations.

Non-refundable Tickets:

If you hold a non-refundable ticket, you cannot cancel and get a refund after the 24-hour window. However, if you cancel before departure, you can use the ticket's value for future travel.

Can You Cancel an American Airlines Basic Economy Ticket?

AA cancellation policy gives 24 hours from the time of purchase to cancel your ticket for a refund, provided you booked at least two days before departure.

Eligibility:

You can cancel your American Airlines Basic Economy Ticket if-

• You have made a new booking
• Your travel has not been used yet

Criteria for AAdvantage Members:

AAdvantage members can cancel Basic Economy fare tickets and receive travel credit for a fee. To qualify-

• Make sure your AAdvantage number is in your reservation before you cancel.
• Your flight must be one of American Airline's own, operating within the 50 U.S. states.
• You must initiate American Airlines flight cancellation before your flight takes off.

FlyO Tip: If the cancellation fee exceeds your ticket price, you won't receive a travel credit. Plan accordingly to avoid this situation.

What is the American Airlines Cancellation Fee?

If you're an AAdvantage member and need to cancel a Basic Economy fare before your first flight departs, the fee is $99. This American Airlines cancellation fee applies to travel within the 50 U.S. states.

How to Cancel an American Airlines Flight?

The American Airlines cancel flight policy provides two options for cancelling your flight within 24 hours of booking. These are:

• Offline:

To cancel your flight offline, simply call the American Airlines reservations team at +1 (571) 378-7016, available 24/7. Provide your flight information to the representative, and they will assist you in canceling your booking.

• Online:

To cancel your flight online, visit aa.com and visit 'My Trips.' Enter your 6-character flight confirmation code to find your booking. Follow the instructions on the screen to complete the American Airlines flight cancellation process.

After successfully following either method, you will receive confirmation via email.

What Happens if American Airlines Cancels My Ticket?

Travel plans can sometimes be interrupted by unexpected flight cancellations or delays. American Airlines strives to ensure timely departures, but weather or other unforeseen events occasionally impact schedules.

If your flight is canceled or delayed to the point where you miss your connection, here's what the AA cancellation policy offers:

Rebook your Flight

American Airlines will automatically rebook you on the next available flight. They aim to get you back on track as quickly as possible, minimizing disruption to your travel plans. Your checked baggage will also be rerouted automatically to your new flight.

To view and change your new trip with American Airlines, you can use their app, website (aa.com), airport kiosks, or contact customer support.

Ask for Refund

If the rebooked flight doesn't work for you, or if you cannot make the rescheduled time, you can contact American Airlines customer support to discuss your eligibility for a refund.

FlyO Tip: If you booked as part of a group block, remember that these reservations don't qualify for the 24-hour refund policy.

How To Get a Refund for a Cancelled American Airlines Ticket?

In case of American Airlines flight cancellations, you may be eligible for a full refund, excluding any non-refundable taxes and service charges. Refunds are processed through the original mode of payment.

Refundable Tickets

If you have a refundable ticket, you can easily request a refund online or by contacting reservations at +1 (571) 378-7016. Credit card refunds are handled within 7 business days, while cash or check refunds take approximately 20 days.

Non-refundable Tickets

Non-refundable tickets are generally not eligible under the American Airlines refund policy, except for:

• If a passenger or travel companion passes away.
• If you cancel your ticket within 24 hours of purchasing.
• If there is a schedule change of more than 4 hours or a 90-minute change within 72 hours of departure.

Conclusion

In a nutshell, canceling your American Airlines flight can be smooth if you do it within 24 hours of booking. Remember to check your ticket type (refundable or non-refundable) to understand your refund options. Need help with American Airlines flight cancellations or have any other questions? Contact FlyOFinder's representatives at +1 (571) 378-7016; they'll be happy to assist.

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About the author

Elena Porter

Experiences life to the fullest through travel; Elena Porter has been a travel author at FlyOfinder since 2019. She has extensively explored the best of over ten countries, offering unique skills to guide readers in discovering the most remarkable places in each city. Ensuring to provide the best of each destination and make your travel unforgettable.