Latest United Flight Change Policy 2024 – Airlines Info Desk
At Airlines Info Desk, we provide the most up-to-date information on United Flight Change Policy 2024. United has made several customer-friendly adjustments to their ticket change and cancellation policies, offering greater flexibility and peace of mind to travelers. From details on waived change fees to guidelines for rebooking and cancellations, our comprehensive guide has everything you need to know. Trust us to keep you informed and help you navigate the latest changes with ease.
United 24-Hour Flight Change Policy
The 24-hour booking policy allows customers to modify their reservation within 24 hours of purchasing their ticket without incurring any fees. However, there are specific rules that must be followed:
- Advance Booking: Reservations must be made at least one week in advance to be eligible for the 24-hour policy.
- Time Limit: Changes or cancellations must be made within 24 hours of the original reservation time to qualify for fee-free adjustments.
These rules ensure that customers have flexibility in managing their bookings while also providing the airline with sufficient notice for any changes.
How Can I Change My Flight without Paying a Fee?
United Airlines has implemented significant changes to its flight change policy in response to the coronavirus pandemic. Notably, the airline has permanently removed change fees for several ticket types, including:
- Standard Economy (excluding Basic Economy)
- Economy Plus
- United First
- United Business
- United Premium Plus
These changes apply to travel within the following regions:
- Within the United States, including Alaska, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, and Hawaii
- Between the United States and Mexico or the Caribbean
- On international flights originating in the U.S.
This adjustment provides passengers with increased flexibility when making changes to their travel plans, reflecting United Airlines response to the evolving circumstances surrounding the pandemic.
Tips for United Airlines Flight Change
United Airlines offers a comprehensive set of policies regarding ticket cancellation and changes, including the following provisions:
- Full Refund within 24 Hours: All United Airlines tickets, including Basic Economy, can be canceled for a full refund within 24 hours of purchase.
- No Change Fee for Certain Flights: No change fee applies to flights within the U.S. or for any international flight originating in the U.S. This policy applies to all Economy (excluding Basic) and Premium Cabin tickets. However, passengers must pay the fare difference if the new ticket is more expensive.
- Change Fee Waiver for Specific Tickets: Certain tickets have a change fee waiver:
- Basic Economy tickets issued by April 30, 2021.
- Standard Economy and Premium cabin international tickets issued by January 31, 2022.
- Cancellation for Travel Credit: Basic Economy tickets can be canceled in exchange for a travel credit for future use, subject to the following fees:
- Domestic flights: USD 49.50 (one-way) or USD 99 (round-trip).
- International flights: USD 99.50 (one-way) or USD 199 (round-trip).
These policies aim to provide flexibility and options for passengers, especially during uncertain times like the COVID-19 pandemic.
Understanding Travel Credit – United Airlines
United Airlines has implemented several policies and updates to provide flexibility and convenience for travelers, including:
- Travel Credit Expiration Extension: Most travel credits, including electronic travel certificates, typically expire within one year after issuance. However, all travel credits and electronic certificates set to expire on or before December 31, 2022, have been extended to December 31, 2023.
- Unlimited Flight Changes with Fare Difference: Passengers can change their flights multiple times, subject to paying the applicable fare difference each time.
- Option for Flight Credit: If unsure about future travel plans, passengers can opt for a flight credit, valid for one year from the original ticket’s issue date.
- Credit for Cheaper Flights: If the new flight is cheaper, passengers will receive a future flight credit for the price difference, provided fare rules permit.
- Award Travel Changes: No change fees apply to award tickets on Economy/Premium Economy fares for travel within the U.S. or internationally if the flight originates in the U.S.
- Travel Credit Usage through Agencies: If a travel credit is issued for a flight booked through a travel agency, it must be used through that agency.
- Elimination of Same-Day Standby Fee: The same-day standby fee for taking an earlier flight on the same day has been eliminated.
- Complimentary Seat Confirmation for MileagePlus Premier Members: MileagePlus Premier members can confirm a seat on an earlier flight at no additional cost.
- Group Fare Change Fee: Group fares purchased via United’s Group Desk remain subject to a change fee.
Flight Change Policy for COVID-19
If COVID-19 disrupted your travel plans, United Airlines offers flexible options to help you adapt. You can choose between receiving a future flight credit or, alternatively, requesting a refund, depending on your specific situation. To initiate a refund, first cancel your flight, then complete the Refund Form on the United Airlines website. Following this, you’ll need to wait for United’s response regarding your eligibility. If you’re eligible, you’ll typically receive a refund within 7 business days if you paid by credit card. However, if you used other payment methods, it could take up to 20 business days. This flexibility ensures that you have the support you need to manage your travel plans during these uncertain times.
United Airlines Change Fee
Fare Type | Change Fee |
Basic Economy tickets | You can cancel and receive a flight credit for future travel, subject to the following cancellation charges: USD 49.50 per one-way domestic flight USD 99.50 per one-way international flight |
Non-refundable tickets | USD 0 |
Refundable tickets | USD 0 |
Award tickets | USD 0 |
How to Change a Flight on United Airlines
To change a flight on United Airlines, follow these steps:
- Access United Airlines Website or Mobile App: Visit the United Airlines website or use the mobile app to manage your booking.
- Log in to Your Account: If you have a United Airlines MileagePlus account, log in to access your bookings. If not, you can typically use your confirmation number and last name to retrieve your reservation.
- Navigate to Manage Reservations: Look for the “Manage Reservations” or “My Trips” section on the website or app. This is where you can view and make changes to your existing bookings.
- Select the Flight You Want to Change: Locate the flight you wish to change from your list of reservations.
- Review Change Options: Depending on the fare rules and policies applicable to your ticket, you may have options such as changing your flight for free within 24 hours of booking, paying a fare difference for changes to non-refundable tickets, or redeeming a travel credit.
- Choose New Flight: Select the new flight you want to change to, considering factors like availability, timing, and any associated fees or fare differences.
- Confirm Changes: Review the changes you’ve made to ensure they are correct. If applicable, make any necessary payments for fare differences or fees.
- Receive Confirmation: Once changes are confirmed, you should receive a new confirmation email with updated flight details.
- Check-In for New Flight: If your new flight is scheduled for a different date or time, remember to check-in again before your departure.
Flight Change Policy – Basic Economy Tickets
United Airlines change policy prohibits changes to Basic Economy tickets, even if you request a change within the 24-hour window. To handle this situation, cancel your Basic Economy ticket within 24 hours of purchase, which is free of charge. After canceling, you can buy a new ticket that matches your updated travel plans.
Alternatively, passengers holding Basic Economy tickets can choose to cancel their reservation and opt for a flight credit, although this is subject to a cancellation fee. The applicable fees for opting for a flight credit are:
- USD 49.50 per one-way domestic flight
- USD 99.50 per one-way international flight
United Airlines Non-Refundable Tickets Policy
United Airlines has updated its flight change policy to allow passengers to change non-refundable tickets free of charge. However, passengers will be required to pay any fare difference that may apply.
For same-day changes, United Airlines will levy the following fees:
- USD 75 for general or Silver-tier members.
- No charge for Gold, Platinum, or 1K members.
Refundable Tickets Policy – United Airlines
United Airlines doesn’t charge change fees when you modify a refundable ticket. However, if you switch to a more expensive ticket, you’ll need to cover the fare difference. On the other hand, if your new ticket is cheaper, you’ll either get a refund to your original payment method or receive a flight credit for future travel, based on the ticket’s fare conditions. This policy provides flexibility for passengers with refundable tickets while ensuring that ticket price adjustments comply with the applicable fare rules.
United Airlines MileagePlus Award Tickets
United Airlines has eliminated the change fee for award travel tickets under certain conditions:
- Redepositing at Least 31 Days Before Departure: There will be no change fee for redepositing award travel tickets if done at least 31 days before departure.
- Travel Originating in the U.S. Within 30 Days of Departure: For award travel originating in the U.S. and occurring within 30 days of departure, the change fee has been waived.
However, for international award travel tickets not originating in the U.S. within 30 days of departure, the following change fees apply:
- USD 125 for General members.
- USD 100 for Premier Silver members.
- USD 75 for Premier Gold members.
- USD 50 for Premier Platinum members.
- USD 0 for Premier 1K members.
Policy for Missed, Delayed, or Cancelled Flights
United Airlines has policies in place to address situations involving missed, delayed, or cancelled flights. Here’s a summary of their key policies:
Missed Flights:
- If you miss your flight due to circumstances within your control (e.g., arriving late at the airport), United typically considers you a “no-show” and may not offer compensation or assistance.
- If you miss a connecting flight due to a delay or cancellation of your inbound United flight, United may rebook you on the next available flight at no additional cost.
Delayed Flights:
- United Airlines aims to minimize flight delays, but delays can still occur due to various reasons, including weather, mechanical issues, or air traffic control.
- If your United flight is delayed, United typically provides updates on your flight’s status and may offer compensation or assistance based on the circumstances and how long the delay lasts.
- Compensation or assistance may include meal vouchers, hotel accommodation (if the delay extends overnight), or rebooking on alternate flights.
Cancelled Flights:
- In the event of a cancelled flight, United Airlines will typically notify affected passengers and offer rebooking options.
- Passengers can rebook on the next available United flight to their destination or choose to cancel their booking for a refund or travel credit, based on their preference and the specific circumstances.
- United Airlines may also provide assistance with hotel accommodation and meal vouchers if the cancellation results in an extended delay or overnight stay.
It’s important to note that specific compensation and assistance may vary depending on factors such as the reason for the delay or cancellation, the fare class of your ticket, and applicable regulations. Passengers are encouraged to review United Airlines policies and contact customer service for assistance in case of flight disruptions.
United Airlines Schedule Change Policies
United Airlines may occasionally make changes to its flight schedules. Here’s an overview of their schedule change policies:
- Notification: United Airlines typically notifies passengers affected by schedule changes via email or phone. The notification will include details of the change, such as the new departure or arrival time.
- Rebooking Options: In most cases, United Airlines automatically rebooks passengers on alternative flights if their original flights are affected by schedule changes. Passengers may receive new flight itineraries reflecting the changes.
- Flexibility: If the new flight schedule does not meet a passenger’s needs, United Airlines may offer options for rebooking on alternate flights without incurring change fees. This flexibility allows passengers to choose a new flight that better suits their travel plans.
- Refunds: If the schedule change significantly impacts a passenger’s travel plans and rebooking on an alternate flight is not feasible, United Airlines may offer refunds, typically to the original form of payment.
- Exceptions: Some schedule changes may not qualify for refunds or fee waivers, especially if the changes are minor or occur within a certain timeframe before departure.
- Communication: United Airlines, in an effort to maintain clear communication, strives to keep passengers informed about schedule changes and their options for rebooking or refunds. To stay updated, passengers are encouraged to regularly monitor their email or, alternatively, check their booking status online. Additionally, United Airlines sends notifications as soon as possible, so passengers can make timely decisions about their travel plans.
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FAQs – United Flight Change Policy
Q1: Can I change my United Airlines flight for free?
A: United Airlines lets passengers change certain tickets without charging a change fee. However, if there’s a fare difference, passengers will need to cover that cost.
Q2: How do I change my United Airlines flight?
A: Passengers can change their United Airlines flight online through the United Airlines website or mobile app. By contacting United Airlines customer service, or by visiting a United Airlines ticketing counter at the airport.
Q3: Is there a fee for changing my United Airlines flight?
A: The change fee policy varies depending on the type of ticket, fare rules, and the reason for the change. United Airlines may waive change fees under certain circumstances. Such as within 24 hours of booking or due to COVID-19-related travel disruptions.
Q4: Can I change my United Airlines flight online?
A: Yes, passengers can typically change their United flight online. Through the Manage Reservations section of the United airlines website or mobile app. However, some changes may require assistance from United Airlines customer service. Alternatively, you might need to contact customer service if the change involves more complex arrangements. Such as rebooking on a different airline or adjusting the traveler’s name. In general, though, the website and app offer convenient options for most flight changes.
Q5: What Happens if United Airlines Cancels My Flight?
A: When United Airlines cancels a flight. Passengers can either rebook on another flight at no additional cost, request a refund, or accept a travel credit. The best option depends on the situation and what the passenger prefers.
Q6: Can I change my United Airlines flight within 24 hours of booking?
A: Yes, you can change most United Airlines tickets within 24 hours of booking without paying a change fee. As long as you bought the ticket at least 7 days before your departure.
Q7: Can I change my United Airlines flight if I booked through a third-party website or travel agency?
A: Yes, passengers can typically change their United Airlines flight if booked through a third-party website or travel agency. But they may need to contact the agency directly for assistance with changes or cancellations.
Q8: What happens if I miss my United Airlines flight?
A: If you happen to miss a United Airlines flight, as a result. There’s a chance the airline will classify you as a “no-show.” In this case, this classification may limit your rebooking or refund options. To avoid complications, it’s crucial to contact United Airlines customer service immediately for assistance. Consequently, by doing this, you can significantly increase your chances of resolving the situation in your favor.