Delta Airlines has a cancellation policy that provides flexibility depending on the type of ticket purchased and the timing of the cancellation. For all passengers, Delta offers a 24-hour risk-free cancellation period. This means that any ticket, including Basic Economy, can be canceled within 24 hours of booking for a full refund, provided the departure is at least 24 hours away. This policy applies to all tickets purchased directly through Delta. Refundable tickets offer the most flexibility, as they can be canceled at any time before departure, and passengers will receive a full refund to their original form of payment. These tickets are more expensive but are ideal for travelers who may need to change their plans. Non-refundable tickets are more restrictive, but Delta has eliminated change and cancellation fees for most of these tickets on flights that originate in North America. If a non-refundable ticket is canceled, the value of the ticket is not lost; instead, it is issued as an eCredit that can be used toward a future Delta flight. These credits typically have an expiration date, often one year from the date of the original purchase. For international flights, some cancellation fees may still apply depending on the route and the fare conditions. Basic Economy tickets are the least flexible and usually cannot be canceled or changed after the 24-hour risk-free window. However, if Delta makes a significant schedule change—such as a delay of 61 minutes or more—passengers with Basic Economy tickets may be eligible for a refund. Award tickets booked using Delta SkyMiles also fall under specific rules. Domestic award tickets can usually be canceled without a fee, while international award tickets may have a cancellation fee unless the traveler has elite Medallion status. In these cases, the miles are typically redeposited into the passenger's SkyMiles account after cancellation. For all ticket types, Delta may waive cancellation fees under special circumstances such as illness, family emergencies, or military duties, often requiring documentation like a doctor’s note or military orders. Delta also issues travel waivers during major disruptions such as severe weather, natural disasters, or operational issues. These waivers allow passengers to cancel or change flights without penalty, even for Basic Economy fares, depending on the situation. To cancel a flight, passengers can go to the Delta website or mobile app, enter the “My Trips” section, and follow the prompts to cancel their reservation. Refunds or eCredits are processed after cancellation depending on eligibility. Delta's cancellation policy is designed to provide travelers with options and peace of mind, whether they purchase flexible fares or lower-cost options. Understanding the rules for each fare type helps passengers make informed decisions when booking and allows them to handle changes with less stress. Overall, Delta’s policy reflects a balance between customer service and business requirements, offering fairness and flexibility for different travel needs and unexpected changes.