Is it free to change flight times?

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Altering your flight schedule typically incurs a charge, except for the priciest, unrestricted tickets. Expect to pay a change fee, plus any difference between your original fare and the current lowest price for the new flight. Flexibility comes at a cost.
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Understanding Flight Time Change Fees

Altering your flight schedule is generally not a free service. Airlines typically impose fees for such changes, except for certain premium or unrestricted ticket options.

Factors Influencing Fees:

  • Ticket Type: The cost of changing your flight can vary depending on the type of ticket purchased. Unrestricted tickets, which offer maximum flexibility, usually include free flight changes. However, more affordable economy tickets often come with change fees.
  • Fare Difference: If the new flight you select is more expensive than your original fare, you may need to pay the difference in addition to the change fee.
  • Time of Change: Changing your flight close to the departure date may result in higher fees compared to making changes well in advance.

Expect to Pay:

  • Change Fee: Airlines typically charge a set change fee, which can range from around $50 to $200 or more, depending on the carrier and ticket type.
  • Fare Difference: If applicable, you will also need to cover the difference between your original fare and the current price of the new flight.

Conclusion:

Flexibility comes at a cost when it comes to flight time changes. While some tickets may offer free changes, most economy or standard tickets require payment of a change fee and any potential fare difference. Understanding these fees and factors before making flight changes can help you budget accordingly.