When your travel plans change, knowing the United Airlines Cancellation Policy can save time and stress. Whether United cancelled your flight, you want to cancel your own booking, or you are confused about refunds, this guide covers it all in simple words.
Understanding United Airlines Cancellation Policy
United Airlines Cancellation Policy is built to give flexibility to travelers. The airline allows cancellations for both refundable and non-refundable tickets under different conditions.
24-Hour Free Cancellation Rule
United Airlines offers a 24-hour cancellation policy. You can cancel any ticket within 24 hours of booking without paying a cancellation fee, as long as the booking was made at least 7 days before departure.
✅ Tip: Always check your ticket type while booking to avoid last-minute confusion.
Cancelling Refundable Tickets
Refundable tickets offer the most flexibility. If you cancel a refundable ticket, you will get your money back to your original payment method. You can cancel:
- Online through United’s website or app
- By calling their customer service
- At the airport ticket counter
Need help? Airline Help is here for you! Call us at 800-594-4991 (OTA), and we can guide you step by step.
Cancelling Non-Refundable Tickets
Non-refundable tickets come with cancellation fees. Usually, United does not refund non-refundable tickets. Instead, they offer travel credits (known as Future Flight Credit) after deducting a cancellation fee. You can use this credit for future flights.
✅ Tip: If you cancel before departure, you will still keep the value of your ticket as travel credit minus the fee.
United Airlines Cancelling Flights: What to Know
Sometimes United cancels flights due to weather, technical issues, or operational reasons. When United Airlines cancels your flight, here is what you should expect.
Your Rights When United Cancels Your Flight
If United Airlines cancels your flight, you are eligible for:
- Rebooking on the next available United flight at no extra charge
- A full refund if you do not wish to travel
- Assistance for meals or hotel stay in certain cases (mainly if cancellation was within United’s control)
Need quick support in such situations? Call Airline Help at 800-594-4991 (OTA), and let us handle the rebooking or refund process for you.
Common Reasons for Cancelled United Airlines Flights
Here are some common reasons behind cancelled United Airlines flights:
- Bad weather conditions (storms, heavy rain, snow)
- Aircraft maintenance or technical problems
- Crew shortage or operational limitations
- Airport issues such as runway closure
✅ Tip: Always keep track of flight status before heading to the airport to avoid last-minute surprises.
Refund Policy for United Airlines
Knowing how refunds work under United Airlines Cancellation Policy is important. Here’s a simple breakdown:
Refundable Ticket Refunds
For refundable tickets:
- Cancel anytime before departure
- Full refund to your original payment method
- Processing time is usually 7-10 business days
Need help getting your refund processed? Airline Help can do it for you! Call us at 800-594-4991 (OTA).
Non-Refundable Ticket Refunds
Non-refundable tickets generally do not qualify for a cash refund unless:
- The flight is cancelled by United
- There is a significant schedule change
- You cancel within 24 hours of booking
Instead, you get travel credits to book future United flights. Credits are valid up to 12 months from issue date.
Basic Economy Tickets
Basic Economy tickets have strict rules:
- No changes or cancellations allowed after 24-hour window
- If United cancels your flight, you will get a refund or rebooking option
✅ Tip: Always check the fare class while booking to understand flexibility and restrictions.
How to Cancel a United Airlines Flight
Cancelling your United booking is simple. You can:
- Visit United’s official website
- Login to your MileagePlus account or enter booking details
- Go to ‘My Trips’
- Select the flight you want to cancel
- Follow the prompts for cancellation
Or, you can call their customer support. If you find long wait times frustrating, Airline Help is here to assist you anytime at 800-594-4991 (OTA).
Cancelling via Mobile App
United’s app also allows easy cancellations:
- Open the app
- Tap on ‘My Trips’
- Select the flight
- Tap on ‘Cancel Flight’ and confirm
✅ Tip: Always keep your confirmation email saved for quick reference during cancellations or refunds.
Fees for Cancelling United Airlines Flights
Here is a general idea of cancellation fees:
- Refundable tickets: No cancellation fee
- Non-refundable domestic tickets: $200 (converted to travel credit)
- Non-refundable international tickets: $200-$400 (depending on route and fare class)
Remember, Basic Economy does not allow cancellations beyond the 24-hour window unless United cancels the flight.
Final Words
Changes in travel plans are common. Knowing the United Airlines Cancellation Policy gives peace of mind. Whether you face cancelled United Airlines flights, or United cancelled your flight suddenly, being aware of your rights and options saves time and stress.
✅ Tip: Always read fare rules before booking to choose tickets that suit your needs.
If you ever feel stuck with cancellations, rebookings, or refunds, Airline Help is here for you! Call us at 800-594-4991 (OTA), and let our team find the best solution for you.