Do I get a full refund if I cancel a flight within 24 hours?

Cancellation Rights and Refunds for Flights Within 24 Hours

When purchasing an airline ticket, it’s important to understand your cancellation rights and refund options. In the United States, the Department of Transportation (DOT) has regulations in place to protect consumers who wish to cancel their flights.

24-Hour Cancellation Rule

One of the most important protections is the 24-hour cancellation rule. This rule states that airlines must refund bookings that are cancelled within 24 hours of purchase, regardless of the reason for cancellation. This rule applies to all domestic flights, including connecting and return flights.

Exceptions to the 24-Hour Rule

There are a few limited exceptions to the 24-hour cancellation rule. These exceptions include:

• Charter flights: Charter flights are not subject to the 24-hour cancellation rule.
• Flights purchased with non-refundable tickets: Some airlines offer non-refundable tickets, which are ineligible for refunds under any circumstances.
• Flights cancelled due to force majeure: Flights cancelled due to circumstances beyond the airline’s control, such as weather or technical issues, may not be eligible for refunds.

Additional Refund Options

In addition to the 24-hour cancellation rule, airlines may also offer additional refund options for flightscancelled beyond 24 hours. These options can vary depending on the airline and the type of ticket purchased. Some common refund options include:

• Flight credits: Airlines may offer flight credits for cancelled flights, which can be used towards future travel on the same airline.
• Partial refunds: Some airlines may offer partial refunds for cancelled flights, depending on the fare rules and the cancellation policy.
• No refunds: For non-refundable tickets, airlines are not obligated to provide any refunds for cancelled flights.

How to Cancel a Flight

To cancel a flight, you should contact the airline directly. You can typically cancel your flight online, via phone, or at a ticket counter at the airport. If you cancel your flight within 24 hours of purchase, you should be eligible for a full refund.

Conclusion

Understanding your cancellation rights and refund options for flights is crucial when planning your travel. By knowing your rights, you can ensure that you receive the appropriate refund if you need to cancel your flight.