How American Airlines changes & cancellations generally work
The rules in plain English. Your specific fare always governs — we'll confirm it on the call.
American has removed change fees on many routes for these fares. You generally still pay any difference in fare if the new flight costs more.
The most restricted fare — changes and refunds are typically not allowed, with limited exceptions. Don't assume; have us check before you give up on it.
US rules generally let you cancel for a full refund within 24 hours of booking, if you booked at least 7 days before departure.
You're generally entitled to a rebooking or a refund to your original payment method — even on a nonrefundable ticket.
Nonrefundable tickets usually convert to a travel credit rather than cash back. Credits have expiry dates and usage rules.
Policies change and vary by route, fare and circumstance. We don't publish fee amounts because yours depends on your ticket — an agent will tell you the exact number before anything is charged.
Refund or travel credit? What you'll likely get
The outcome depends on who cancelled and your fare — here's the quick read.
You cancel by choice
Most common
- Nonrefundable fares usually convert to a travel credit, not cash
- Refundable fares return to your original payment
- Basic Economy is often non-changeable and non-refundable
- Credits carry expiry dates and usage rules
American cancels or changes
Better for you
- A refund to your original payment is generally available — even on nonrefundable fares
- Or free rebooking on the next available flight
- Significant schedule changes usually count too
- Some routes add rights depending on cause
Have this ready before you call
Thirty seconds of prep gets it done on the first call.
- Record locator — the 6-character code on your confirmation
- Passenger name exactly as it appears on the ticket
- Current travel dates and, if changing, the new dates you'd like
- Fare type if you know it — or we'll look it up for you
Watch the 24-hour window. If you booked within the last 24 hours and at least 7 days before departure, US rules generally allow a full refund — but the window is strict, so don't wait.
Frequently asked
Will I get money back or just a travel credit?+
I booked yesterday — can I still cancel free?+
My name is spelled wrong. Is that fixable?+
Do you charge for this?+
Contact options
Reach American directly, or let us handle it.
Contact American Airlines directly
The airline's own official channels — free.
More American Airlines help
Related guides.