Yes, you can cancel a United Airlines flight and receive a refund, but the specifics depend on your ticket type and the circumstances surrounding the cancellation.
24-Hour Cancellation Policy
United Airlines offers a 24-hour cancellation policy that allows you to cancel your flight within 24 hours of booking and receive a full refund, provided the reservation was made at least seven days before the scheduled departure. This policy applies to all fare types, including Basic Economy tickets, and is in compliance with U.S. Department of Transportation regulations .
Refundable Tickets
If you purchased a refundable ticket, you can cancel your flight at any time before departure and receive a full refund to your original form of payment. Refunds are typically processed within seven business days for credit card payments and up to 20 business days for other methods .
Non-Refundable Tickets
For non-refundable tickets, if you cancel after the 24-hour window, you will not receive a cash refund. Instead, the value of your ticket may be converted into a United Travel Credit, which can be applied toward future travel. However, cancellation fees may apply, and the credit is subject to the fare rules of your ticket .
Basic Economy Tickets
Basic Economy tickets are generally non-refundable and non-changeable. However, if you cancel within 24 hours of booking and the reservation was made at least seven days before departure, you can receive a full refund. After this period, cancellations are not permitted, and the ticket value is forfeited .
Flight Cancellations by United Airlines
If United Airlines cancels your flight or significantly delays it (more than three hours for domestic flights or six hours for international flights), you are entitled to a full refund to your original form of payment. Additionally, you may be eligible for compensation, such as meal vouchers or hotel accommodations, depending on the circumstances .
How to Cancel and Request a Refund
To cancel your flight and request a refund, you can visit United's website or mobile app and navigate to the "My Trips" section. If you prefer, you can contact United Airlines customer service for assistance. Refunds will be credited back to the original form of payment used for the ticket purchase .
In summary, United Airlines provides options for canceling flights and obtaining refunds, with policies varying based on ticket type and timing. Understanding these policies can help you navigate the process and make informed decisions regarding your travel plans.