LATAM Airlines’ cancellation policy depends on the type of ticket purchased, when the cancellation is made, and the circumstances surrounding the cancellation. The airline offers a 24-hour cancellation window for tickets booked directly through its official channels. Within 24 hours of purchase, passengers can cancel their tickets and receive a full refund, provided the flight is scheduled to depart at least seven days later. This policy gives travelers a brief period to change their minds without penalty.
Tickets are generally divided into refundable and non-refundable categories. Refundable tickets provide more flexibility, allowing passengers to cancel at any time before departure and receive a full refund, sometimes with minimal cancellation fees. These tickets tend to be more expensive but offer peace of mind in case plans change. Non-refundable tickets, which are often discounted fares, do not usually qualify for a cash refund if canceled. Instead, passengers may receive a travel credit or voucher for future flights, minus any applicable cancellation fees. The amount and validity of this credit depend on the specific fare conditions.
If a passenger cancels after the 24-hour cancellation window, refundable tickets may still be eligible for refunds but often with cancellation fees applied. Non-refundable tickets will generally only be eligible for travel credits. The exact rules depend on the fare purchased and the route.
If LATAM cancels or significantly changes a flight, passengers have several options. They can reschedule their flight at no additional cost while keeping the same cabin class and route. Alternatively, they may leave their ticket open without specifying a new travel date for up to 12 months from the original booking date. Passengers can also request a full refund of the unused ticket portion, including taxes and fees paid for extras like seat selection and baggage.
In exceptional cases, such as medical emergencies or the death of an immediate family member, LATAM may offer more flexible cancellation or rebooking options. Passengers in these situations should contact customer service and provide documentation to support their request.
To cancel a flight, passengers can use the "My Trips" section on LATAM’s website, call customer service, contact their travel agent if the booking was made through one, or visit a LATAM service center or airport counter. Refunds are usually processed within 7 to 10 business days if paid by credit card, while other payment methods may take longer, sometimes up to 20 to 25 business days.
Understanding LATAM’s cancellation policy is important for managing travel plans effectively. The 24-hour cancellation window provides a risk-free opportunity to change bookings shortly after purchase. Beyond that, refund eligibility depends largely on ticket type, with refundable fares offering the greatest flexibility. Passengers should review their fare rules carefully before booking and contact LATAM promptly if they need to cancel or reschedule to avoid unnecessary fees or loss of funds.