You’re excited to fly overseas for your vacation, but the news forecasts a storm. Disappointed, you cancel your tickets and ask for a refund.
If you’re flying on American Airlines, there are a few things you’ll need to know about requesting a refund for delays, bad weather, or more — so keep reading!
American Airlines Refund Policy In 2024
American Airlines offers full refunds to customers if flights have been canceled as of 2024. If a customer wishes to refund a ticket, they may do so within 24 hours of purchase. Customers are eligible for partial compensation due to any delays that occur. The compensation amount is dependent on the length of the delay.
If your American Airlines flight has been canceled and you need a refund, keep reading. I tell you all you need to know about American Airlines’ refund policy!
How Can I Cancel My American Airlines Ticket For Free?
Customers can request a refund for an American Airlines flight ticket for free for many reasons, including:
- If the flight departure or arrival changes significantly
- Significant life events such as the death of a loved one (just be sure to show proof)
- American Airlines may provide a waiver for cancellation fees if the flight is canceled due to weather
- American Airlines may waive cancellation fees on certain credit cards
- Customers have the option of purchasing a flexible fare. However, these tickets are more expensive. Flexible fare tickets allow refund outside the required 24 hours.
- Customers canceling within 24 hours are eligible for a full refund minus any non-refundable taxes or service charges.
How Much Are The Cancelation Fees On American Airlines?
American Airlines offers a full refund to customers that cancel their tickets within 24 hours of purchase, which is in accordance with US Law.
Unfortunately, for non-refundable tickets, there is a charge of $200 for domestic flights and $700 for international flights to cancel.
Does American Airlines Compensate For Delays?
American Airlines offers compensation for delays in the following situations:
- If the light arrives more than three hours after the ETA
- If customers were not informed of a flight cancellation less than 14 days before takeoff
- If American Airlines overbooks flights and customers are denied boarding
- If customers missed a connecting flight and are delayed more than three hours because of it
What Happens If American Airlines Cancels My Flight Due To Weather?
American Airlines is committed to a timely departure schedule and the complete satisfaction of its passengers.
However, events outside of the air carrier’s control affect a flight’s ability to take off.
In these cases, American Airlines will rebook a customer’s flight if the flight is canceled or delayed, and all baggage will be rerouted.
Moreover, customers can check in for their new flight via the American Airlines app or by visiting the check-in stands at the airport.
Will American Airlines Refund Delays Less Than 3 Hours?
American Airlines is not legally obligated to compensate for delays of less than three hours.
If a delay over three hours occurs, customers can claim compensation for a portion of the flight.
Does American Airlines Pay For A Hotel If A Flight Is Canceled Due To Weather?
Weather is a factor that causes a delay that is out of the control of American Airlines.
Due to this, customers are responsible for any expenses related to hotels, such as booking a room, meal costs, and transportation.
How do You Make A American Airlines Delayed Flight Compensation Claim?
Customers must make a claim with American Airlines to be reimbursed for any delays.
Depending on the jurisdiction, customers can make a claim within the year or even six years after the flight.
Also, the amounts vary, but one thing is consistent — the flight must be canceled or delayed for over three hours, or the customer must be denied boarding onto the flight.
American Airlines Refund Policy Main Cabin
American Airlines will issue refunds for seats if customers wish to upgrade their ticket to First or Business Class.
Additionally, customers are eligible for a full refund if they request a refund within 24 hours from the time of purchase.
American Airlines Refund Policy If Flight Is Canceled
A refund will be issued for nonrefundable tickets only if the ticket is refunded within 24 hours of purchase.
That said, customers can request a refund online; the processing of the refund happens within seven days.
However, if you pay with cash, the refund occurs within 20 days of American Airlines receiving the request.
Moreover, American Airlines will not refund invalid or expired tickets.
Lastly, tickets bought from an external website like a travel agent will need to be refunded through the agency.
To know more, you can also read our posts on why is American Airlines so expensive, American Airlines stroller policy, and if American Airlines has outlets.
Conclusion
Customers can cancel their ticket for an American Airlines flight within 24 hours of booking.
Once the 24 hours have elapsed, customers still wanting a refund will need to pay a fee. Then, if the customer provides a valid reason with proof, this fee may be waived.
Also, there are other circumstances in which American Airlines will allow refunds, including bad weather, aircraft maintenance, or other related issues outside the control of the passenger.
Finally, American Airlines will not pay for hotels, meals, transportation, or other fees arising from flight delays or complications.
