United Airlines offers a flexible cancellation policy that includes a 24-hour flight cancellation rule designed to give passengers peace of mind when booking travel. According to this policy, customers who book a flight through United—either on its website, mobile app, or by phone—can cancel their reservation within 24 hours of booking and receive a full refund, as long as the reservation was made at least one week before the scheduled departure. This 24-hour rule applies to all types of fares, including non-refundable tickets, which means travelers have a risk-free window to make changes or cancel if their plans change shortly after booking. This policy is especially helpful for travelers who might have made a mistake during booking or who want to secure a fare quickly without being locked into their decision.

Beyond the 24-hour cancellation rule, United’s cancellation policy varies based on the type of ticket purchased. Basic Economy tickets are generally non-refundable and non-changeable, even beyond the 24-hour window. If a Basic Economy ticket is canceled after the 24-hour period, the passenger is not eligible for a refund or a travel credit. For standard non-refundable tickets in other fare classes, United allows cancellation, but instead of a monetary refund, the traveler will receive a flight credit that can be used toward a future trip. The value of the credit is usually equal to the original ticket price, minus any cancellation fees if applicable. These credits must be used within 12 months of the original ticket issue date.

Refundable tickets offer more flexibility. Passengers holding refundable tickets can cancel their flights at any time before departure and receive a full refund to their original form of payment. There are generally no penalties or fees associated with these cancellations. This option is ideal for travelers whose plans are uncertain or who prioritize flexibility.

In cases where United cancels a flight, regardless of the fare type, passengers are entitled to either a full refund or a free rebooking on the next available flight. This applies whether the cancellation is due to weather, mechanical issues, or other operational disruptions. In the event of a significant schedule change or long delay, travelers may also request a refund if they choose not to travel. Additionally, if a passenger experiences an emergency such as illness or a family death, United may offer more flexible cancellation options, but documentation may be required.

To cancel a booking, passengers can log in to their United MileagePlus account or use the “My Trips” feature on the United website or mobile app. From there, they can review their reservation details, cancel flights, and request refunds or travel credits if eligible. It is always important to review the fare rules at the time of booking and to act within the 24-hour window when possible for maximum flexibility. By understanding United Airlines’ cancellation policy, travelers can make informed decisions and avoid unexpected fees or issues when plans change.