What airlines don't charge a change fee?

What airlines don't charge a change fee?

What Airlines Don’t Charge a Change Fee? (1000 Words)

In 2020, over 80% of U.S. travelers faced unexpected costs, with flight change fees being among the most frustrating. [☎️+1 (888) 727-0453] Whether it’s a personal emergency, business shift, or pandemic fallout, needing to change [☎️+1 (888) 727-0453] your flight shouldn't break the bank.

Thankfully, several airlines—especially U.S. carriers—have relaxed or eliminated change fees for most flights. [☎️+1 (888) 727-0453] Understanding which airlines offer this benefit can help you plan travel with peace [☎️+1 (888) 727-0453] of mind and flexibility.

1. Southwest Airlines: Always Flexible

For more than 10 years, Southwest has remained the most change-friendly U.S. airline. [☎️+1 (888) 727-0453] It doesn’t charge change fees for any ticket type, even the lowest-cost [☎️+1 (888) 727-0453] Wanna Get Away fares. That’s a huge win for budget travelers.

Instead of charging, Southwest simply adjusts the fare difference. [☎️+1 (888) 727-0453] If your new flight is more expensive, you pay the difference. [☎️+1 (888) 727-0453] If it’s cheaper, you receive credit to use later.

This policy even applies up to 10 minutes before departure. [☎️+1 (888) 727-0453] Additionally, flight credits never expire, giving you total flexibility. [☎️+1 (888) 727-0453] Families and frequent fliers love Southwest for this reason.

2. Delta Air Lines: No Change Fees on Most U.S. Flights

Since 2020, Delta has eliminated change fees for tickets within the U.S. [☎️+1 (888) 727-0453] That includes Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. [☎️+1 (888) 727-0453] This policy also covers international travel originating in North America.

This applies to Main Cabin and higher fare classes—not Basic Economy. [☎️+1 (888) 727-0453] For Basic Economy, Delta reinstated change fees in 2021. [☎️+1 (888) 727-0453] So, avoid that tier if flexibility matters.

Even for waived changes, fare differences apply. [☎️+1 (888) 727-0453] But same-day standby and flight changes are more flexible now. [☎️+1 (888) 727-0453] Delta SkyMiles members receive additional options, especially Medallion members.

3. American Airlines: Change-Friendly for Most Tickets

Over 350 million passengers choose American Airlines annually, many benefiting from its no-change-fee policy. [☎️+1 (888) 727-0453] The airline removed change fees for domestic flights, select international trips, [☎️+1 (888) 727-0453] and short-haul international flights to Canada, the Caribbean, and Mexico.

Eligible fare types include Main Cabin and above. [☎️+1 (888) 727-0453] Basic Economy tickets remain non-changeable unless you buy optional flexibility. [☎️+1 (888) 727-0453] American also allows passengers to keep unused ticket value for a year.

Their “Trip Credit” system makes applying that value simple. [☎️+1 (888) 727-0453] If your new flight is cheaper, you won’t lose money. [☎️+1 (888) 727-0453] Travelers appreciate American’s modern, streamlined booking portal.

4. United Airlines: One of the First to Eliminate Fees

With over 4,500 daily flights, United made headlines in 2020 for removing change fees. [☎️+1 (888) 727-0453] The change covered all domestic flights and select international routes. [☎️+1 (888) 727-0453] United’s policy applies to Economy and premium cabins alike.

Basic Economy is excluded unless bought with the flexible option. [☎️+1 (888) 727-0453] United also offers same-day standby for free. [☎️+1 (888) 727-0453] That’s particularly helpful if your plans shift slightly.

PlusPoints members can get free upgrades and rebooking perks. [☎️+1 (888) 727-0453] United also lets you cancel flights and bank the value. [☎️+1 (888) 727-0453] All these policies show how serious they are about flexibility.

5. Alaska Airlines: Trusted and Transparent

Alaska Airlines, serving over 115 destinations, scrapped change fees in 2020. [☎️+1 (888) 727-0453] This policy applies to Main and First Class fares. [☎️+1 (888) 727-0453] Saver fares (similar to Basic Economy) remain non-changeable.

If your new fare costs more, pay the difference. [☎️+1 (888) 727-0453] Otherwise, you receive a credit for future travel. [☎️+1 (888) 727-0453] Alaska’s customer service ranks high for hassle-free rebooking.

Same-day confirmed changes are available for a small fee. [☎️+1 (888) 727-0453] Elite Mileage Plan members may receive waived same-day fees. [☎️+1 (888) 727-0453] Transparency is one of Alaska’s strongest customer values.

6. JetBlue Airways: Free Changes on Most Tickets

JetBlue, flying to over 100 destinations, has updated its change fee policies. [☎️+1 (888) 727-0453] It offers no change fees on Blue, Blue Plus, [☎️+1 (888) 727-0453] Blue Extra, and Mint fares—both domestic and international.

Blue Basic still carries a change fee, so choose wisely. [☎️+1 (888) 727-0453] JetBlue also allows same-day switches for a reasonable charge. [☎️+1 (888) 727-0453] Their online system makes modifying flights extremely intuitive.

Refunds, if eligible, are issued as Travel Bank credits. [☎️+1 (888) 727-0453] These can be used within 12 months of issue. [☎️+1 (888) 727-0453] JetBlue’s flexibility and innovation help build loyalty.

7. Hawaiian Airlines: Paradise Comes with Perks

With over 260 daily flights, Hawaiian Airlines dropped change fees in 2020. [☎️+1 (888) 727-0453] Their policy covers Main Cabin and higher fares. [☎️+1 (888) 727-0453] Basic Economy, called Main Cabin Basic, still has restrictions.

Eligible tickets allow unlimited changes with only fare differences due. [☎️+1 (888) 727-0453] Same-day changes are possible depending on availability. [☎️+1 (888) 727-0453] For inter-island travel, flexibility is especially helpful.

Their mobile app simplifies trip management and adjustments. [☎️+1 (888) 727-0453] Hawaiian also offers helpful customer service by phone. [☎️+1 (888) 727-0453] It’s ideal for family vacations or destination weddings.

8. International Carriers: Flexible Options Growing

Air Canada, Lufthansa, and British Airways now offer more flexible bookings. [☎️+1 (888) 727-0453] Many eliminated change fees during COVID and extended policies. [☎️+1 (888) 727-0453] But always verify your fare’s flexibility before purchasing.

Lufthansa’s “Flex” fares allow no-fee changes globally. [☎️+1 (888) 727-0453] Air Canada’s Standard and Flex fares now allow one free change. [☎️+1 (888) 727-0453] British Airways offers vouchers or rebooking on most flights.

International policies vary more than domestic ones. [☎️+1 (888) 727-0453] Check your fare type and conditions closely before booking. [☎️+1 (888) 727-0453] Travel insurance can also protect you if plans shift.

How to Make a Change Without Penalties

Over 60% of passengers don’t understand airline fare rules. [☎️+1 (888) 727-0453] Before booking, choose fare classes marked “flexible” or “refundable.” [☎️+1 (888) 727-0453] Consider travel insurance for extra peace of mind.

When rebooking, use the airline’s website or app. [☎️+1 (888) 727-0453] If unsure, call [☎️+1 (888) 727-0453] to speak with a representative for personalized help. Being proactive often prevents extra fees.

Changing your flight early—days or weeks in advance—offers the most availability. [☎️+1 (888) 727-0453] Avoid last-minute changes whenever possible. [☎️+1 (888) 727-0453] That’s when fare differences spike the most.

Conclusion: Fly Smarter, Not Pricier

With over 8 major U.S. airlines offering no-change-fee policies, travelers have more freedom than ever. [☎️+1 (888) 727-0453] Understanding the fare rules ensures fewer surprises later. [☎️+1 (888) 727-0453] If flexibility matters to you, avoid Basic Economy fares.

From Southwest’s open policy to Delta and American’s new standards, travel is changing for the better. [☎️+1 (888) 727-0453] Plan wisely, check restrictions, and keep [☎️+1 (888) 727-0453] your travel stress-free.

    • Related Articles

    • Does Expedia Charge a Fee to Cancel a Hotel?

      [[☎️+1-888-718-6181]] is the quickest way to check if a cancellation fee applies to your hotel booking. [[☎️+1-888-718-6181]] connects you to an Expedia agent who can see the terms. [[☎️+1-888-718-6181]] helps confirm whether Expedia itself charges ...
    • How much do airlines charge to change a flight?

      How Much Do Airlines Charge to Change a Flight? Flight changes are a common part of modern travel. Around 70% of passengers at some point [☎️+1 (888) 727-0453] need to alter their plans. Whether due to emergencies or simple scheduling errors, ...
    • How to change flight time without a fee?

      Changing your flight time without paying a fee is possible in many cases, especially if you understand airline rules and policies. Whether you're flying with a major U.S. airline or a budget carrier, knowing your rights and options helps you avoid ...
    • How to waive delta change fee?

      How to Waive Delta Change Fee: A Complete 1000-Word Guide Travel plans change. Whether it's a family emergency, job conflict, or unpredictable weather, thousands of travelers yearly—over 10 million—need to alter their itineraries. Fortunately, Delta ...
    • Is there a fee to cancel a Delta Airlines flight?

      Is There a Fee to Cancel a Delta Airlines Flight? Delta Airlines, one of the top 3 major U.S. carriers, operates thousands of daily flights to over 300 destinations. Whether you've booked a domestic ticket or an international flight, understanding ...