Yes, The Airline Change Fees Can Be Waived!

Many travelers work around calculating the airline cancellation fees for different airlines. Many times, it is so ridiculously high that you might want to completely ditch the trip or book a new and cheaper coach ticket. That is why changes are discouraged every time.

You make your best travel plans but mishaps inevitably take place leaving you encircled with misery. If you come across such a situation where amendments need to be made in your travel plans, here are some of the ways you can waive the airline change fees!

1. When You’ve Just Bought

It is most convenient to get airline change fees waived if you’ve recently bought your ticket. Instead of ending in a pool of regrets, all North American Airlines offer you the chance to get an automatic full refund if the flight is booked less than 24 hours ago. American Airlines differ in this regard because with American, you can put the flight to hold for 24 hours instead of straightaway booking it. The policy has been established by the Department of Transportation.

The rule is also extended to tickets booked with the third party travel agencies. With some exceptions, you can get a full refund if the booking doesn’t exceed a day.

2. Keep An Eye On Schedule Changes

Airlines are often habitual of changing flight schedules that might appear too inconvenient for the passengers. Even if it still appears convenient for you, taking benefit of the situation can help you to escape the cancellation fee. This is particularly true for the confirmed passengers who’ve booked directly with the airline. Airlines tend to change the schedule when you’ve booked way in advance; for instance, six months.
All you have to do is to not accept the renewed schedule. The change can be minor so airlines generally don’t allow you to cancel against a no-fee. More leeway is only going to be given if the new flight schedule is significantly going to affect your life.

Whatever happens at the end is totally dependent on the airline’s discretion, but it is worth playing your cards!

3. Same-Day Change Policies

These are the trickiest ones because you won’t be able to make until the very last moments. It is very important to consider the airline’s policy here because each one of them differs here. Mostly, the fee is highly reduced. However, you would only be able to avail it if you allow yourself to be extremely flexible with your plans.

4. Standby

Let’s first clear misconceptions about the standby fee; they aren’t free. However, it is a useful option in many cases. These can be availed if the same day change isn’t available for a particular fare class you’ve book looking for. In terms of costs, it doesn’t get lower than the same day option, so there is no added benefit of getting this if you wish to get your airline change fees waived.

5. Give Up And Go For The Next One

This might sound awfully painful to a lot of passengers who’ve made a purchase. Ditching your flight can be really bad, but sometimes that has to be the only feasible option. At times, the cancellation fees are so high that there is no point going for the change option. International flights may cost you a fortune! In this instance, it might be worth to completely skip the flight and look for alternative ones. Don’t be surprised to find cheaper coach tickets in comparison!

Emergencies are a completely different situation when it comes to getting airline change fees waived. Special rules are applicable in life and death situations if you document it well. It would turn into a disappointment if you’re expecting airlines to be sympathetic because they’re also in the money making race. However, it is always best to look out for your options before you make a payment.