Delta Airlines offers a flexible cancellation policy that varies based on the fare type, timing of cancellation, and booking method. One of the most important features is Delta’s 24-hour risk-free cancellation policy, which applies to all ticket types, including Basic Economy. If you book a flight directly through Delta’s website, app, or authorized agents, and your flight departs at least 24 hours after booking, you can cancel within 24 hours of purchase and receive a full refund to your original form of payment with no cancellation or change fees. This policy is mandated by the U.S. Department of Transportation and provides travelers with a risk-free window to reconsider their plans shortly after booking.
Beyond the 24-hour window, cancellation options depend on the fare purchased. Refundable tickets can be canceled at any time before departure for a full refund to the original payment method. These tickets typically include most full-fare economy, business, and first-class tickets. Non-refundable tickets, including Main Cabin and Comfort+ fares, do not qualify for cash refunds after the 24-hour period but can be canceled to receive an eCredit for the ticket’s value minus any applicable cancellation fees. This eCredit is valid for one year from the original ticket issue date and can be used toward future travel on Delta. If you rebook a flight that costs more than your original ticket, you must pay the difference; if it costs less, you receive an eCredit for the difference. Cancellation fees have been eliminated for many fare types originating in North America, but some fees may still apply depending on the route and fare class.
Basic Economy tickets are the most restrictive. After the 24-hour risk-free cancellation period, these tickets generally cannot be changed or refunded. However, in some cases, you may cancel Basic Economy tickets for a partial eCredit minus a cancellation fee, depending on your point of origin and destination. Award tickets booked with SkyMiles have their own cancellation rules: domestic U.S. award tickets can be canceled without fees, while international award tickets may incur cancellation fees unless you hold elite Medallion status.
If Delta cancels your flight or significantly changes your schedule, you are entitled to a full refund regardless of your ticket type. Refunds can be requested online through the “My Trips” section or by contacting Delta customer service. Refund processing times vary by payment method but typically take 7 to 20 business days.
To cancel a flight, you can log into your Delta account, go to “My Trips,” select your reservation, and follow the prompts to cancel. Alternatively, you can call Delta’s customer service or contact your travel agent if you booked through one. It is advisable to cancel before the first flight segment departs to preserve any remaining ticket value.
In summary, Delta Airlines provides a 24-hour risk-free cancellation policy for all tickets, allowing full refunds within that window. Refundable tickets can be canceled anytime before departure for a full refund, while non-refundable tickets usually convert to eCredits valid for one year. Basic Economy fares have stricter rules with limited refundability. Passengers affected by airline cancellations are entitled to full refunds. Delta’s policies balance flexibility and fare conditions, offering travelers options to manage cancellations with minimal financial loss.