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BlogTravel TipsUnited Airlines Flight Change Policy 2024

United Airlines Flight Change Policy 2024

Changing United Airlines Flights can be a daunting task when you have sudden emergencies to cope with. We are here to guide you through the United Airlines flight change policy and everything you must know before booking with United Airlines.

What is United Airlines Flight Change Policy 2024?

United Airlines Flight Change Policy 2024

United Airlines flight change refers to the change of flight within the airline in any emergency.

  • United Airlines offers the option to reschedule flights without any additional fee, but this is subject to certain conditions.
  • Passengers can either make a United rescheduled flight using the United Airlines website or mobile app, or they can contact customer service team for assistance.

Fond Tip: Changes within 24 hours of booking (at least a week in advance) are free of cost.

Types of United Flight Changes

United Airlines offers a traveler-friendly flight change policy in 2024:

Free Changes

  • 24-Hour Risk-Free Window: Change your flight within 24 hours of booking (flights booked at least 7 days before departure) for free, regardless of the fare type (except Basic Economy).
  • United Airlines changes flight Same-Day (US/PR/USVI), which is allowed depending on the route and fare type. Try switching to an earlier flight on the same day (subject to availability) within these specific regions, potentially without a fee. An extra fee will only apply when you receive a confirmed seat on the new flight.
  • Award Tickets (Domestic/International originating in the US): No change fees typically apply for award flights booked with miles.

Changes with Fees

  • Non-Refundable Tickets: You can change your flight, but fees may apply ($0-$400) based on your travel route and fare rules. Pay any difference in fare if your new flight is more expensive.
  • Basic Economy: Generally, not changeable but can be cancelled for a partial e-credit. Depending upon various factors.

Exceptions:

  •    Waived Change Fees: United has waived change fees for most flights in 2024. This means you won't be charged a fee to reschedule your trip, even if it's outside the 24-hour window. (Domestic and International flights: excluding Basic Economy fares)
  • Schedule Changes: If United Airlines makes a schedule change that alters your departure time by more than 30 minutes, you can rebook on another United or United Express flight for free within 24 hours, departing from the same airport.

Remember, fare differences might apply, and Basic Economy/Money+Miles tickets are non-changeable. For details and exceptions, contact us at +1-(571)-389-6426.

Fond Tip: While refundable tickets generally allow multiple free changes, some specific fare types might have limitations. To be sure, it's always best to check the fare rules associated with your ticket.

How to Change United Flight

United Airlines makes it easy to change your flights. You have two options: use their self-service option online or get help from their customer service team. Whichever you choose, the process is straightforward. Here's everything you need to know about changing your United Airlines flights.

Online process of United Change flight

  1. Go to United.com and log in to "My Trips".
  2. Select "Change Flight" for your desired trip.
  3. Choose "Edit" to update your flight details.
  4. Select a new flight that meets your needs.
  5. Review any United Airlines change fee differences and confirm the change.

Contacting Customer Service to change the Flight

  1. Call Customer Service at+1 (571) 389 6426
  2. Provide your confirmation number and request a flight change.
  3. Discuss available options with the agent and confirm your new flight.

Your new flightbooking must:

  • Make sure to have the exact departure and arrival airports
  • The flight must Depart within 24 hours of the original flight.
  • The flight must be operated by United or United Express®.

Fond Tip: The United Basic Economy and Money+Miles tickets are not changeable.

United Airlines Rescheduled Flight Fee

United Airlines Flight Change Policy

For Non-Refundable Tickets:

  • Waived Change Fees: United has waived United Airlines change fees for most flights in 2024, including non-refundable tickets in most situations.
  • Fare Differences: Regardless of ticket type, you might still need to pay the difference in fare if the new flight you choose costs more than your original ticket.
  • United Same-day change Fees: United does have same-day change fees for non-refundable tickets, with the specific costs of $75 for general and silver-tier members and free for Gold, Platinum, or 1K members being accurate.

For Refundable Tickets:

  • No extra fees: United doesn't charge extra if you need to change your flight with a refundable ticket.
  • Switching to a pricier flight: If you want to fly on a more expensive flight later, you'll need to pay the price difference.
  • Getting a cheaper flight: If your new flight costs less, the airline will either:
  1. Refund the difference directly to your payment method (like your credit card).
  2. Give you an "e-credit" that you can use for future flights with the same airline.
  3. Remember, whether you get a refund or e-credit depends on the type of ticket you have.

So, changing flights with a refundable ticket is flexible, but there are a few things to keep in mind!

Fare Type
Change Fee
Basic Economy ticketsNot changeable (except for cancellation within 24 hours)
Refundable ticketsUSD 0
Non-refundable ticketsMostly waived in 2024, but potential fees apply in some cases (e.g., outside 24-hour window)
Award ticketsUSD 0 (within 30 days for US departures, fees apply for international flights)

Final thoughts on changing your United flight

  • Flexibility is the name of the game: United generally offers flexibility for flight changes, especially compared to some other airlines. This means you can often switch flights without a hefty fee.
  • Know your ticket type: Basic Economy fares have the most restrictions on changes, while other fare types offer more flexibility.
  • Plan for the best options: Changing flights within 24 hours of booking or for award travel usually comes with no fees.
  • United Same-day changes are possible (within specific regions): If you're within the US, Puerto Rico, or the US Virgin Islands, you can try to change to an earlier flight on the same day, potentially without a fee (subject to availability).
  • International award tickets might be an exception: There might be a specific change in fee structure for international award tickets originating outside the US, so be sure to check with United directly.
  • Double-check fees and policies: Fees and policies can change, so always confirm the latest information by calling +1(571)3896426 before making any changes.

Remember, changing your flight can be a smooth process with United, especially when you understand the different scenarios and plan accordingly.

FAQ’s

   Can I change my United Airlines flight for free?

United Airlines offers flexibility with United flight changes! You can often adjust without a fee, but it depends on your ticket type and the timing.

How many days before my flight can I change the date?

For a date change, your flight must be at least seven days away from the time of cancellation. However, last-minute United flight change policy might offer options for urgent situations.

Can I change my flight online with United Airlines?

Absolutely! Use your flight credentials to change your flight directly on the United Airlines website or their mobile app.

Can I change a United Airlines flight within 24 hours?

Yes, thanks to United's 24-hour cancellation policy. Cancel your United tickets within 24 hours of booking free and avoid any extra charges.

Can I change my Basic Economy flight for free?

Basic Economy fares usually don't allow changes. However, you can still make free changes within 24 hours of booking. You might be eligible for partial credit upon cancellation.

Does United Airlines charge a fee for seat changes?

Switching to a new seat within your booked cabin is usually free if it's available. Upgrading to a higher cabin seat will likely incur additional costs.

What if I need to change my flight multiple times?

United Airlines' rescheduled flight fee policy allows multiple changes free of charge for refundable tickets if there's still time before your flight departs.

Will I get a refund if I change to a cheaper flight?

No, the fare difference is forfeited when switching to a cheaper flight. You might not receive a refund, but depending on your fare type, you could get a flight credit.

How can I contact United Airlines for help changing my flight?

Reach out to the United Airlines customer service team through their official phone number or use the online communication channels at +1(571)3896426. They'll be happy to assist you with your flight change.

Tags:United
About the author
Cynthia Lucas
Cynthia Lucas

Cynthia Lucas, a visionary author at Fond Travels since 2017, has revolutionized travel writing by blending exploration with captivating storytelling. Renowned for her insightful advice, Cynthia excels in sharing the best tips and tricks on securing the cheapest flights, hotels, and experiences. Her work enables travelers to realize their dream trips without breaking the bank. 

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