What To Know
- If you book a flight on American Airlines and decide within 24 hours that you need to change it, you can do so without paying a change fee.
- If American Airlines makes a change to your flight schedule, such as a delay or cancellation, you are entitled to a free change to another flight on the same route.
- If you need to change your flight outside of the exceptions listed above, you will likely be subject to a change fee.
Planning a trip can be exciting, but unexpected events can sometimes require adjustments. If you find yourself needing to change your American Airlines flight, you may wonder if it’s possible to do so without incurring additional costs. This blog post will delve into the policies and procedures surrounding flight changes with American Airlines, exploring whether and when you can expect to make changes for free.
Free Flight Changes: The Basics
Generally, American Airlines does not offer free flight changes for all fare types. However, there are certain exceptions and circumstances under which you may be eligible for a complimentary change:
- Within 24 Hours of Booking: If you book a flight on American Airlines and decide within 24 hours that you need to change it, you can do so without paying a change fee. This applies to both domestic and international flights.
- Schedule Changes by American Airlines: If American Airlines makes a change to your flight schedule, such as a delay or cancellation, you are entitled to a free change to another flight on the same route.
- Military and Government Personnel: Active duty military personnel and government employees traveling on official business may be eligible for free flight changes.
- Elite Status: American Airlines elite status members, such as Platinum and Executive Platinum, typically have more flexibility to change flights without incurring fees.
Change Fees and Waivers
If you need to change your flight outside of the exceptions listed above, you will likely be subject to a change fee. The amount of the fee varies depending on the fare type, route, and time of change:
- Domestic Change Fee: $200 for most fare types
- International Change Fee: $300-$500 for most fare types
- Same-Day Change Fee: $75 for most fare types
In certain cases, American Airlines may waive the change fee. This may occur if the change is due to an extenuating circumstance, such as a medical emergency or a family bereavement. To request a fee waiver, you should contact American Airlines customer service.
How to Change Your Flight
To change your American Airlines flight, you can:
- Call the American Airlines customer service line at 1-800-433-7300.
- Visit the American Airlines website at aa.com and select “Manage My Trip.”
- Use the American Airlines mobile app.
When making a change, you will need to provide the following information:
- Your flight confirmation number
- The new flight you wish to book
- The reason for the change (if applicable)
Additional Considerations
- Fare Differences: If you change your flight to a higher fare class, you may need to pay the difference in fare.
- Availability: Flight changes are subject to availability. The new flight you wish to book may not be available.
- Time Limits: Some fare types may have restrictions on when you can change your flight. For example, some non-refundable fares may not allow changes.
Key Points: Fly with Confidence
Understanding American Airlines’ flight change policies can help you plan your trip with peace of mind. While free flight changes are not always available, there are certain exceptions and circumstances under which you may be eligible. By being aware of the change fees and procedures, you can avoid unexpected costs and ensure a seamless travel experience.
Popular Questions
1. Can I change my flight for free if I booked a basic economy fare?
No, basic economy fares typically do not allow free flight changes.
2. How much does it cost to change a domestic flight on American Airlines?
The domestic change fee is $200 for most fare types.
3. Can I change my flight online?
Yes, you can change your flight online at aa.com or through the American Airlines mobile app.
4. What is the deadline for changing my flight within 24 hours of booking?
You must change your flight within 24 hours of booking to avoid a change fee.
5. How do I request a fee waiver for a flight change?
You can request a fee waiver by contacting American Airlines customer service.
