Flight plans can change for many reasons, and knowing how to manage cancellations or reschedules can save you from stress and financial loss. Airlines offer varying levels of flexibility depending on your fare type, route, and timing, so it is important to understand your options in advance.

Changing a Flight  

Most airlines allow passengers to modify their booking, but the process and fees vary.

• How to Change a Flight: Visit the airline’s official website or app and go to the “Manage Booking” or “My Trips” section. Use your booking reference and last name to access the flight;

• Changeable Elements: You can typically update travel dates, departure or arrival times, and sometimes even the destination. Additional services like seat selection or baggage allowance can also be edited;

• Fees and Fare Difference: If your original fare is non-flexible, you may have to pay a change fee along with any fare difference. Some full-service airlines allow one free change, especially for premium or flexible tickets;

• Time Limits: Most changes must be made a few hours before departure. Some budget airlines close modifications 24 hours before flight time;

• Third-Party Bookings: If you booked through a travel agency or booking platform, contact them directly, as changes might need to go through their system.

Canceling a Flight  

Flight cancellations depend heavily on the fare rules of your ticket.

• Refundable vs Non-Refundable Tickets: Refundable tickets usually allow full or partial refunds if canceled within a specified time frame. Non-refundable fares might only offer travel credit or no compensation at all;

• Cancellation Window: Airlines typically allow cancellations up to a few hours before departure. Canceling after check-in is rarely allowed;

• How to Cancel: Log into your airline account or booking platform, select the flight, and choose the cancel option. Follow the prompts, and save any confirmation or refund receipt;

• Refund Methods: Refunds are usually credited back to the original payment method or issued as a travel voucher, depending on the policy;

• Flight Protection Plans: If you purchased travel insurance or a cancellation add-on, you might be eligible for a refund under certain conditions, such as illness or emergency.

Things to Keep in Mind  

• Check Terms Before Booking: Always review the fare conditions and cancellation policy before finalizing a ticket;

• Beware of No-Show Penalties: Not canceling a flight you can’t take may result in losing the entire fare. Always inform the airline in advance;

• Airline Schedules: If the airline changes or cancels your flight, you are usually entitled to a free change, refund, or alternate route;

• Documentation: If canceling for visa or medical reasons, some airlines may request supporting documents to waive fees or issue refunds.