American Airlines Change Flight Policy

American Airlines Flight Change Policy Type

When travel plans change, so can your flight—sometimes with no extra fee. And it is always better to keep up to date with all the information about airline change policy, so when the time comes, you know how to handle yourself and what you can do in the situation. Here is Everything You Need to Know About American Airlines’ Flight Change Policy and tips to avoid surprises.

American Airlines Change Flight Policy

American Airlines is known for its passenger-first approach; thus, it only has a few policies regarding changing flights. Here is all you need to know:

1. 24-Hour Risk-Free Change Window

American Airlines has a 24-hour grace period for changing your flight ticket after initial booking to take advantage of fee-free service. This grace period is only applicable on flights with more than two days of time left before scheduled departure, and you booked through the official American Airlines channel, such as the official website and app or by calling +1 (855) 510-7629.

2. Fare Categories & Change Rules

There are four categories: Main Cabin, Premium Economy, Business, and First Class available in American Airlines.

American Airlines charges no change fee on its domestic and international flights, even beyond 24 hours.

As there is no change fee applied to your changes yet, the fare difference between the two tickets is still chargeable, or an American Airlines travel credit will be issued according to the difference.

Basic Economy (AA’s most restrictive fare)

Historically, changes weren’t allowed—but now you can cancel them for a travel credit, with a fee of around $99, and only if you’re an AAdvantage member, booked directly, and travelling within the U.S. In the case of basic economy tickets, you can change them. You can, however, cancel them for American Airlines Credits by reaching customer support at +1 (855) 510-7629.

3. How Can You Change Your Flight?

American Airlines provides multiple options to modify your itinerary.

• The first way is to change your flight online by visiting the official American Airlines website or app. Then go to “My Trips” or “Manage Trips or Check-in”. Now enter your ticket reservation details and select “change trip” if eligible.
• Another method is to reach out via a call to request changes at +1 (855) 510-7629.
• The third and final option is to visit the airport counter and request changes to your reservation, and your changes will be made according to eligibility.

If, for some reason, you don’t see the Change Trip option, it means your fare isn’t changeable online and you have to call the American Airlines call centre or visit the airport if necessary.

4. Same-Day Changes & Standby Policy

American Airlines offers same-day standby access with some conditions. It means you can request flight changes on the same day of scheduled departure for a fee, which is based on the changed route and fare.

As of July 1, 2025, all passengers on domestic flights—not just those with elite status—will be able to request same-day standby up to 45 minutes prior to departure (elite travellers enjoy extended access).

5. No-Show & Ticket Value Preservation

In case of no-show or failing to change your ticket before the scheduled departure, the ticket value, even travel, will not be refundable. It is recommended to change your ticket beforehand to preserve your ticket value. If you face any issues, simply contact American Airlines support at +1 (855) 510-7629 for guidance.

6. Fare Combinations & Strictest Rule

The strictest fare regulations apply when refundable and non-refundable segments are combined into a single itinerary; if any segment is non-refundable, the entire itinerary may be considered non-refundable. This may have an impact on your eligibility for a refund as opposed to a travel credit.

7. Travel Credit vs. Refund

If a refund is requested prior to departure and is completely unused, it will be issued using the original payment methods.

The cost of the replacement flight will be given in voucher form in the event of a change. The Non-refundable fares include economy, premium economy, etc.

8. Loyalty Status Benefits

American Airlines shows extra love and care to its loyal patrons and offers AAdvantage elite membership. This will benefit from extra flexibility, including fee waivers and prioritising you in standby, and these perks are also eligible for same-day changes in itinerary.

Tips for Travellers

• It is always better to check fare rules before booking your tickets, especially if you’re booking mixed fare types for your return travels too.
• Plan wisely to use a 24-hour window to make changes and save on your fare.
• If possible, skip basic economy if your plan is not fixed.
• When changing to the cheaper flight, manually ask for your credit for the price difference.
• Try an online method by visiting the official site to change your ticket for easy and better offers.
• If you travel regularly via a flight, consider joining AAdvantage for longer validity of travel credits and elite benefits.

Summary Table For Your Ease

*For domestic & many international routes; exceptions may apply, see fare rules.