Flexibility and peace of mind are important when you plan air travel. Whether trying to cut down on the time spent on a business trip, know more about a family vacation, or thinking about taking a last-minute trip, the United Airlines cancellation policy helps travel in a more confident manner.

United Airlines Cancellation Policy United Airlines has created a robust cancellation policy that works for a variety of travelers. With 24-hour risk-free cancellations and flexible fare options, United is doing its best to ensure that cancellations and changes are as painless as possible.

24-Hour Risk-Free Cancellation

The 24-Hour Risk-Free Cancellation Rule is one of the most traveler-friendly parts of the United Airlines cancellation policy. If you purchase a ticket directly from United Airlines—through their website, mobile app, or customer service—you are permitted to cancel or change your flight without paying any cancellation fee within 24 hours of making your booking. This only applies if the booking is also made at least seven days prior to the scheduled departure.

It provides travelers with an all-important opportunity to reassess and adjust their plans — penalty-free.

Cancellation Policy for Different Fare Types

United Airlines has different types of fare, and the cancellation rules depend on the fare type you bought:

• Basic Economy: The most restrictive tickets. Basic Economy tickets are usually non-refundable and non-changeable. These tickets are generally non-refundable once booked — the exception will be if it's within the 24-hour cancellation period described above.

• Standard Economy and Higher (Main Cabin, Premium Plus, Business, and First Class): United no longer charges change or cancellation fees on most domestic and international flights in these fare classes, giving you more flexibility. If you do cancel, you’ll get a travel credit that can be applied to future flights.

• Refundable Tickets: If you bought a refundable fare, you can cancel at any time for a full refund to the original form of payment.
  
  

How to Cancel a United Airlines Flight

If you did book your flight with United, canceling it is very easy through the app or website. Here’s how:

1. Go to the United Airlines website or the mobile app.

2. Sign into your account or head to “My Trips.”

3. On the site, enter your confirmation number and last name.

4. Choose the flight you want to cancel, then proceed through the prompts.

5. Confirm Cancellation and Look for a Possible Refund or Travel Credit

If you’d rather talk to someone directly, United’s agents are also available to assist you with canceling or changing your reservation via telephone.

Special Considerations

There are also certain unique situations, such as medical emergencies or military orders, in which the United airlines cancellation policy provides flexibility. In those situations, United may cancel fees if proper documentation is submitted.

And if United cancels your flight or makes a big schedule change, you might be eligible for a full refund, even on nonrefundable tickets.