United Airlines’ cancellation policy depends largely on the type of ticket purchased and the timing of the cancellation. Generally, the airline offers a 24-hour risk-free cancellation period for all tickets, allowing passengers to cancel their reservation within 24 hours of booking for a full refund. This policy applies only if the booking was made at least seven days before the scheduled departure. During this 24-hour window, travelers can cancel without penalty and receive a complete refund, regardless of whether the ticket is Basic Economy, Standard Economy, or a higher fare class. After this initial 24-hour period, the cancellation rules vary depending on the fare type. Basic Economy tickets, which are the most restrictive, are typically non-refundable and non-changeable after the 24-hour window. If a passenger cancels a Basic Economy ticket after this period, they will not receive a refund or a travel credit. This strict policy is designed to keep fares low but offers limited flexibility in case of changes or cancellations. However, refundable tickets provide much more freedom. Passengers with refundable fares can cancel their flights at any time before departure and receive a full refund back to their original payment method. Refund processing times typically range from seven business days for credit card payments to up to twenty business days for other forms of payment. For non-refundable tickets, which make up a significant portion of United’s offerings, passengers cannot obtain a cash refund if they cancel after the 24-hour risk-free window has passed. Instead, United usually issues a travel credit that can be used for future flights within a year of the original ticket purchase date. These credits may be subject to cancellation fees depending on the fare rules tied to the ticket. It is crucial for travelers to review the specific fare conditions to understand the potential fees and the validity period of travel credits. United also has specific policies regarding award tickets booked using MileagePlus miles. The airline no longer charges fees for canceling award tickets and redepositing miles if the cancellation is made before the flight. However, if a passenger is a no-show, a $125 redeposit fee applies regardless of the passenger’s elite status. This encourages passengers to cancel or change award bookings in a timely manner to avoid penalties. Furthermore, when United cancels a flight or makes significant changes, such as substantial delays or airport changes, passengers are entitled to a full refund regardless of ticket type. This aligns with U.S. Department of Transportation regulations, which protect travelers’ rights to refunds in cases where the airline is responsible for cancellations or major disruptions. Passengers can initiate cancellations through United’s website or mobile app by accessing the “My Trips” section and selecting the cancellation option. Customer service representatives are also available to assist with cancellations and answer questions about fare rules or refund eligibility. Overall, United Airlines’ cancellation policy is designed to balance flexibility and fare affordability. The 24-hour risk-free cancellation window offers passengers the opportunity to reconsider their travel plans without penalty shortly after booking. Beyond that period, refund options depend heavily on the fare type, with refundable tickets offering the most flexibility, while Basic Economy fares have the strictest terms. Travelers should carefully review their ticket’s terms and conditions at the time of purchase and keep abreast of United’s policies to make informed decisions. By understanding these policies, passengers can better manage cancellations and avoid unexpected fees, ensuring a smoother travel experience.