If you need to cancel, what should you do? Fortunately, American Airlines’ cancellation policy is fairly moderate; in fact, it is far more reasonable than it was previously. I’ll walk you through it step by step, so you know exactly what to anticipate.

1. The 24-Hour Rule

Here you have the best companion ever. American Airlines allows you to cancel your flight within 24 hours of booking and receive a full refund, even if the ticket is non-refundable. The sole stipulation is that you book your flight straight via AA and depart two days later.

This is a US Department of Transportation mandate; thus, AA should comply. It is an excellent way to secure a fare, even if it is a great deal, while being able to change your plans without consequence.

For quick help, you can also call +1 (855) 510-7629.

2. Refundable vs. Non-Refundable Tickets

2.1 Refundable Tickets

These are the most versatile. When you purchase a refundable fare, you can cancel at any time before your flight and receive a refund, it’s as simple as that.

2.2. Non-Refundable Tickets

This contains the majority of the Main Cabin, Premium Classes, and, most notably, Basic Economy. Once the 24-hour deadline has passed, it is too late to receive your money back, but all is not lost:AA normally rewards you with a travel credit equal to the unused ticket price. You can use it on future flights; however, it normally expires one year after purchase for loyalty members and six months for non-members.

The American Airlines Cancellation Policy is important because it helps you understand refundable vs. non-refundable tickets and avoid money loss.

3. Basic Economy (the Most Restrictive Fare)

When it comes to cancellations, Basic Economy flights are tight as thieves. Beyond that 24-hour cancellation limit, many Basic prices are fully non-refundable and non-changeable; however, some may offer trip credits if you are a loyalty member and meet extraordinarily stringent standards. All you need to know is that once that window has expired, there are no complete refund choices accessible on Basic Economy.

4. When the Airline Cancels or Changes Your Flight

Something to keep in mind here is that if American Airlines cancels or significantly alters your flight, such as postponing it by 3 or more hours inside the country or altogether changing your reservation, you are entitled to a full refund. That is also true for nonrefundable tickets. And, according to recent DOT requirements, the refund must be automated and returned immediately.  If you’re unsure about your eligibility, you can always confirm by calling +1 (855) 510-7629.

5. How to Actually Cancel and Request That Refund

This is how I generally walk someone through it:

• Log in or visit the Manage Trips page on their website.
• Locate the reservation you want to cancel and then click Cancel Trip.
• When your fare is refundable or falls within the 24-hour timeframe, you will be given the option of receiving a refund.
• If you are outside of that window and have a non-refundable ticket, trip credit will be displayed instead.

If you are due a refund but do not see it, visit the AA Refunds page and input your ticket number and last name. Simple enough.

Credit card deposits often return to your account within a week, while other payment methods can take up to 20 days.

A Quick Table

Conclusion

Are you allowed to cancel your American Airlines flight and receive a refund? Yes, and in a few intelligent ways. Even if you are 24 hours away at the time of booking, you will be financially protected. When your ticket is refundable, you can change your mind. In a non-refundable circumstance in which AA can cancel or change your flight to a new, much longer one, DOT laws require that you receive a refund, all automatically. For any confusion, you can call +1 (855) 510-7629 for quick help.