The updated Delta airlines flight change policy offers more flexibility to travelers, allowing them to modify their bookings without incurring additional charges in the following scenarios- When modifying the date, time, or destination of your trip prior to departure, you’ll only incur additional charges if the fare for your new flight is higher. Please note that Basic Economy tickets typically cannot be altered or refunded in most instances. Delta Airlines’ flight change policy permits adjustments to your flight details, including date, time, and destination, or provides the option to request a refund in the form of an eCredit, subject to specific conditions.
Snapshot of Delta Airlines Flight Change Policy
Under the updated Delta Airlines flight change policy:
- Initial 24-Hour Flexibility: Within 24 hours of booking, you can modify your flight’s date, time, or destination without incurring a change fee, regardless of fare type. This can be done by cancelling your ticket without penalty and then rebooking it.
- Permanent Waiver for Main Cabin and Higher Fares: Delta has permanently waived flight change fees for all domestic and international flights originating from the United States, Canada, the Caribbean, and Africa to any destination. This includes Basic Economy tickets booked up to April 30, 2021. However, certain tickets may still incur fees, particularly for trips originating from regions like Africa and Europe. For clarity on your ticket, please refer to its terms.
- Delta-Issued Tickets: The fee waiver also applies to all international flights operated by Delta’s codeshare and joint venture partners, provided the ticket was issued by Delta.
- Fees for Trips Originating Outside Specific Regions: For trips originating outside of the United States, Canada, and the Caribbean, a change fee may be applicable based on your departure location and ticket type.
- Specific Regions Exempt from Change Fees: The change fee waiver remains in effect for flights originating from Israel, India, Oceania, and Asia.
- Refundable Ticket Flexibility: Refundable tickets can be modified without a change fee up to 24 hours before departure, though any fare difference will apply.
- Award Ticket Modifications: For award tickets originating in the United States and Canada, redeposit and reissue fees have been eliminated, and all changes (including cancellations) must be made before departure.
- Same-Day Changes: Same-day changes within 24 hours of departure are permitted within the United States, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands for a fee, starting at USD 75, depending on your ticket type. Complimentary same-day changes are available for Diamond, Platinum, and Gold Medallion members, but are not applicable to international flights or Basic Economy tickets.
- Extended Ticket Flexibility: Tickets expiring in 2022 or purchased during 2022 can now be rebooked until December 31, 2023, for travel through 2024.
- Group Booking Changes: Changes made to an existing flight booking online will apply to all passengers in the booking.
- Third-Party Ticket Handling: If you wish to modify a ticket issued by a third party, an additional fee may be charged by the third party.
Delta Airlines Change Fee
If your flight is not covered by a travel waiver, you may incur a change fee ranging from USD 0 to 400, along with any applicable fare differences, when making changes to your reservation. The specific charges depend on factors such as the timing of the cancellation and the type of ticket you have purchased. Please refer to the table below for more information.
Time Period | Basic Economy Tickets | Non-refundable Tickets | Refundable Tickets |
Within the 24-hour risk-free period | No change fee—only the price difference will apply. | No change fee—only the price difference will apply. | No change fee—only the price difference will apply. |
After the 24-hour risk-free cancellation period | Not allowed—but some tickets originating from Africa, Europe, and other international locations can be changed for up to USD 200 per ticket. | Subject to a change fee of USD 0 – 400 + price difference (refer to the fare rules for details). | Only the price difference will apply. |
Within 24 hours of departure | Not allowed—but some tickets originating from Africa, Europe, and other international locations can be changed for up to USD 200 per ticket. | Starting from USD 75, subject to seat availability. | Starting from USD 75, subject to seat availability. |
Delta Flight Change Policy for COVID
Delta Airlines has implemented special provisions in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Here are the key points of their flight change policy related to COVID-19:
- Flexible Booking Changes: Delta offers flexibility for changing travel plans, allowing passengers to adjust their flights without a change fee. This includes the ability to modify travel dates, times, and destinations.
- Waiver of Change Fees: Delta has waived change fees for many bookings affected by COVID-19-related disruptions. This applies to both domestic and international flights.
- Refunds: In certain situations, passengers may be eligible for refunds for canceled flights due to COVID-19. Refunds can be provided in the form of eCredits or original payment methods, depending on the circumstances.
- COVID-19 Testing Requirements: Depending on your destination, Delta may have specific requirements for COVID-19 testing before travel. Passengers should check the latest travel advisories and requirements for their destination.
- Health and Safety Measures: Delta has implemented various health and safety measures to protect passengers during their travels, including enhanced cleaning procedures, mandatory mask requirements, and social distancing measures.
- Travel Flexibility: Delta offers increased flexibility for booking changes, including the ability to make changes closer to the departure date without penalties.
- Communication: Delta provides regular updates and communication to passengers regarding any changes to their flights or travel requirements related to COVID-19.
Delta Airlines Change Flight Policy for Military
Delta Airlines offers a special change flight policy for military personnel, providing flexibility in certain circumstances, such as unexpected military deployment or changes in orders. Under this policy, military personnel are typically allowed to change or cancel their Delta flight without incurring fees. However, it’s important to note that supporting documentation, such as proof of deployment or official orders, may be required to process the request.
Cost to Change a Flight on Delta Airlines
If your flight ticket is not eligible for a change fee waiver. The cost to change a flight can range from USD 0 to 400, depending on factors such as your route and fare type. It’s important to note that Basic Economy tickets are typically non-changeable and non-cancellable unless they qualify for a travel waiver or are cancelled within the 24-hour window, allowing you to rebook according to your new preferences.
Changing Non-Refundable Flight Tickets on Delta Airlines
If you wish to change a non-refundable ticket on Delta Airlines and your flight does not qualify for a travel waiver, the flight change fee can range from USD 0 to 400, depending on your specific route. Additionally, you will be responsible for covering any applicable fare difference.
It’s important to note that changes cannot be made to Basic Economy Tickets. That are not covered by the Basic Economy waiver. This includes tickets booked before April 30, 2021, or between May 1 and December 31, 2021, as long as they are re-issued on or before December 31, 2021, and used by December 31, 2022.
*Please be aware that Basic Economy tickets issued for trips originating in Mexico cannot be changed or cancelled.
However, there are exceptions:
- Some Basic Economy tickets originating from Africa, Europe, and other international locations may be eligible for changes, subject to a fee determined by the fare conditions of your ticket.
- Tickets issued for trips originating in Korea, Europe, the United Kingdom, Africa, the Middle East, and India can be cancelled and refunded, with a deduction of the cancellation fee. The cancellation fee amounts to €150 for Europe, £150 for the United Kingdom, and USD 180 for Africa, the Middle East, and India.
How to Avoid Delta Airlines Flight Change Fee/Charges?
To avoid Delta Airlines flight change fees or charges, consider the following strategies:
- Book Flexible Fares: Opt for fares with more flexibility, such as refundable or flexible tickets, which often allow changes or cancellations without incurring additional fees.
- Choose the Right Fare Class: Select a fare class that offers greater flexibility, such as Main Cabin or higher tiers, which may have fewer restrictions on changes compared to Basic Economy tickets.
- Book Directly with Delta: Booking directly through Delta Airlines website or reservations center can sometimes provide more lenient change policies compared to booking through third-party travel agencies or websites.
- Take Advantage of Travel Waivers: Keep an eye out for travel waivers issued by Delta Airlines, especially during unforeseen events like natural disasters or pandemics. Travel waivers may temporarily waive change fees for affected flights.
- Plan Ahead: If you anticipate the need to change your travel plans. Try to make changes well in advance of your scheduled departure. Last-minute changes often incur higher fees.
- Consider Elite Status: Delta’s frequent flyer program, SkyMiles, offers elite status tiers such as Silver, Gold, Platinum, and Diamond Medallion. Members of these tiers may receive benefits such as waived change fees or reduced fees, depending on their status level.
- Use Miles or Credits: If you have Delta SkyMiles or flight credits from a previous booking. Consider using them to book new flights instead of paying cash. This can help mitigate or eliminate change fees.
- Monitor Fare Drops: Keep an eye on the fare for your desired itinerary. If the fare drops after you’ve booked, Delta may allow you to change to the lower fare without incurring a change fee, depending on the fare rules.
- Stay Informed: Stay updated on Delta Airlines’ policies and announcements regarding change fees and waivers. Policies may change over time, so it’s essential to be aware of the latest updates.
By employing these strategies and staying informed about Delta’s policies, you can minimize or avoid flight change fees when altering your travel plans.
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FAQs – Delta Airlines Flight Change Policy
Q: What is Delta Airlines’ flight change policy?
A: Delta Airlines allows passengers to make changes to their flight reservations, subject to certain conditions and fees.
Q: How can I change my Delta flight?
A: Passengers can change their Delta flights through the airline’s website, mobile app, or by contacting Delta’s customer service.
Q: Are there fees for changing a Delta flight?
A: Yes, Delta may charge fees for changing flights, depending on factors such as the fare type, route, and timing of the change.
Q: What are the fees for changing a Delta flight?
A: The fees for changing a Delta flight can vary, ranging from USD 0 to 400, depending on factors like the fare type and route. Fare differences may also apply.
Q: Are there any exceptions to the change fees?
A: Delta may waive change fees in certain situations, such as during emergencies, natural disasters, or when travel waivers are in effect.
Q: Can I change or cancel a Basic Economy ticket?
A: Basic Economy tickets typically have more restrictions and may not be eligible for changes or cancellations, except within a limited window after booking or under specific circumstances.
Q: How do I know if my ticket is eligible for changes without fees?
A: Eligibility for fee waivers depends on factors such as the fare type, route, and any active travel waivers issued by Delta.
Q: Can I change my flight online?
A: Yes, passengers can manage their flight reservations and make changes online through Delta’s website or mobile app.
Q: What if Delta changes my flight?
A: If Delta initiates changes to your flight, they will typically notify you and provide alternative options. In some cases, passengers may be eligible for compensation or refunds.
Q: Where can I find more information about Delta’s flight change policy?
A: For more detailed information about Delta Airlines’ flight change policy, including specific terms and conditions, passengers can visit Delta’s website or contact the airline’s customer service team.