Booking with American Airlines offers great reach across the U.S. and beyond, but we know travel plans can shift. The American Airlines cancellation policy is designed to provide clarity and options, whether you have a flexible fare or a more restricted one. For immediate assistance, you can always call our customer support number to get help with your flight tickets quickly and efficiently.
Free cancellation within 24 hours of booking (if booked 2+ days before departure)
Full refund to original payment method at any time before departure
Receive a travel credit for future use, minus any cancellation fee
Available for a fee with same-day confirmed change option
Yes. The American Airlines 24-hour cancellation policy allows you to cancel any ticket for a full refund if you book at least 2 days before departure and cancel within 24 hours of purchase.
If you purchased a refundable ticket (typically branded as ‘Full-Fare’ or ‘Flexible’ fares), you enjoy the most freedom.
Most basic economy and main cabin fares are non-refundable. However, American Airlines provides value in the form of a travel credit.
Once you cancel an eligible ticket, American Airlines will process your refund automatically. The time it takes to see the funds depends on your payment method.
| Refund Type | Processing Time |
|---|---|
| Credit/Debit Card | 7 business days |
| Bank Transfer / Other Methods | Up to 20 business days |
| Travel Credit / Voucher | Issued immediately to your account |
American Airlines allows you to change your flight online or via phone. Policies vary significantly by fare type.
Changes are not permitted after the 24-hour risk-free period.
Changes are permitted for a fee plus any fare difference.
No change fees are charged on most domestic and short-haul international flights for all fare classes except Basic Economy.
Change requests can be made through ‘Manage My Trips’ on aa.com, the app, or by calling customer service.
American Airlines offers a same-day confirmed change and standby option for a fee, subject to availability.
You can cancel your flight online for most bookings or by phone for complex situations. Our agents are available 24/7 to assist.
If American Airlines cancels your flight for any reason (e.g., weather, operational issues), you are entitled to options.
Yes, if you cancel within the 24-hour risk-free window or if you have a refundable fare. Non-refundable tickets incur a fee, but the remaining value is issued as a credit.
You will receive a travel credit for the value of your ticket, minus any applicable cancellation fee. This credit is valid for one year.
Trip credits and vouchers issued from canceling a ticket are typically valid for 1 year from the original date of issue.
No. After the 24-hour risk-free period, Basic Economy tickets cannot be changed, canceled, or refunded.
You are always entitled to choose a full refund to your original payment method or to be rebooked on the next available flight.
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