How Alaska changes & cancellations generally work
The rules in plain language. Your exact fare always governs — we'll confirm it on the call.
For Main, Premium Class and First Class, Alaska doesn't charge a change fee — move to a different flight and you'd only owe the difference in fare if the new one costs more.
Alaska's lowest fare can't be changed at all, though you can usually cancel it for a credit within the fare's limits. Don't write it off as hopeless — call and we'll read your ticket's actual rules.
When you book directly and far enough ahead of departure, Alaska generally lets you cancel within 24 hours for a full refund to your original payment.
Outside that window, cancelling an eligible fare usually keeps its value as a flight credit rather than cash. Credits carry expiry dates and usage conditions.
You're generally owed a rebooking or a refund to your original form of payment — even when the ticket was nonrefundable.
Policies vary by fare, route and how your ticket was issued. We never publish change or cancellation amounts because yours depends on your ticket — an agent tells you the exact figure before anything is charged.
Alaska fares and how flexible they are
Where your ticket sits decides how easily it changes. Higher = more flexible.
Refund or credit? What you'll likely get
It comes down to who cancelled and your fare.
You cancel by choice
Most common
- Eligible fares convert to a flight credit, not cash
- Saver can usually be cancelled for a credit within limits
- Credits carry expiry dates and conditions
- Refundable fares return to your original payment
Alaska cancels or reschedules
Better for you
- A refund to your original payment is generally available
- Applies even to nonrefundable fares
- Or free rebooking on the next available flight
- Significant schedule changes usually count
Use the 24-hour rule. Alaska's cancellation policy refunds a booking made directly and cancelled within 24 hours — as long as you booked far enough ahead of the flight. If you booked today and aren't sure, call us before the window closes.
Frequently asked
Can I change a Saver (basic economy) ticket?+
Will I get money back or a credit?+
I booked a few hours ago — can I cancel free?+
Do you charge to change it for me?+
Contact options
Reach Alaska directly, or let us handle it.
Contact Alaska Airlines directly
The airline's own official channels — free.
More Alaska Airlines help
Related guides.