Southwest Airlines is known for its generous cancellation policy, which stands out in the airline industry for being customer-friendly and flexible. Whether you're looking to change your travel dates or need to cancel due to unexpected circumstances, Southwest offers a straightforward and hassle-free process. Here’s everything you need to know about Southwest Airlines cancellation policy.
1. No Change Fees
One of the most notable features of Southwest Airlines is its no change fee policy. Unlike most other airlines that charge hefty fees for making changes to your booking, Southwest allows you to cancel or change your flight without any additional charges. This applies to both refundable and non-refundable tickets, making it easier to adjust your travel plans.
2. How to Cancel Your Southwest Flight
Canceling your flight with Southwest Airlines is a quick and easy process. You have several options:
- Online: Visit the Southwest Airlines website or use their mobile app. After logging into your account, find your reservation, and simply select the "Cancel" option.
- By Phone: If you prefer to speak with a customer service agent, you can call Southwest Airlines to cancel your flight.
Regardless of how you cancel, there are no cancellation fees. However, the refund you receive will depend on your fare type.
3. Refundable vs. Non-Refundable Tickets
Southwest Airlines offers two main types of fares, and your cancellation refund will depend on which type you purchased:
Refundable Fares (Business Select): If you purchased a Business Select ticket, which is a refundable fare, you can cancel your flight and receive a full refund to your original form of payment. This applies if you cancel before the scheduled departure.
Non-Refundable Fares (Wanna Get Away): If you purchased a Wanna Get Away or Wanna Get Away Plus fare, you will not receive a cash refund. Instead, you will be issued a travel credit for the value of the fare, minus taxes. This credit can be used toward future Southwest flights within 12 months of your original booking date.
4. Refunds for Canceled Flights
If you cancel a flight or Southwest cancels it for you, here’s what to expect:
Southwest Cancels the Flight: If Southwest Airlines cancels your flight due to reasons like weather, mechanical issues, or other operational challenges, you are eligible for a full refund, regardless of your ticket type. Refunds are generally processed within several business days.
You Cancel the Flight: If you cancel your flight, the type of refund you receive will depend on your ticket:
- Refundable tickets: You will receive a refund to your original payment method.
- Non-refundable tickets: You’ll receive travel credit for future use, not a cash refund.
5. Same-Day Flight Changes
Southwest Airlines is flexible when it comes to same-day flight changes. If you need to change your flight for a different time on the same day, Southwest allows you to do so without paying a change fee. If a seat is available on the new flight, you’ll only need to pay the difference in fare, if any. This feature is especially useful for passengers who need to adjust their travel plans at the last minute.
6. 24-Hour Cancellation Policy
Southwest Airlines offers a 24-hour cancellation policy for all flights. If you book a flight and need to cancel it within 24 hours, you can do so for a full refund, as long as your flight is scheduled to depart at least 7 days in advance. This policy gives travelers a window of time to cancel a booking without any penalties, making it a great option if you need flexibility after booking.
7. Canceling Flights Paid with Rapid Rewards Points
If you booked your flight using Rapid Rewards points, you can also cancel your reservation and get your points refunded:
- Within 10 minutes of booking: If you cancel your flight within 10 minutes of booking, you’ll receive a full refund of your points with no penalty.
- After 10 minutes: If you cancel after the 10-minute window, a small points reinstatement fee may apply. However, most of your points will be refunded.
8. Using Travel Credit
If you cancel a non-refundable fare, you will receive travel credit that can be used for future flights. Here are the key details:
- Non-transferable: Travel credits are issued in the name of the original passenger and cannot be transferred to another person.
- Expiration: Travel credits are valid for 12 months from the original booking date. After 12 months, any unused credit will expire.
- Booking with Travel Credit: You can use travel credit to book any Southwest flight within the 12-month validity period.
9. Refunds for Additional Services
In addition to your ticket, you may have purchased extra services like EarlyBird Check-In, Upgraded Boarding, or Checked Bags. These services are generally non-refundable, even if you cancel your flight. However, if Southwest cancels your flight, you may receive a refund for any additional services that were included in the booking.
10. Special Circumstances
If you face special circumstances, such as a medical emergency or family crisis, Southwest may be able to offer additional assistance. While there is no guarantee, it’s worth reaching out to customer service to explain your situation. Southwest has been known to provide accommodations in these cases, such as rescheduling flights or offering other solutions.
Key Takeaways:
- No Change Fees: Southwest does not charge change fees for flight cancellations or modifications.
- 24-Hour Cancellation: You can cancel your flight within 24 hours of booking for a full refund, as long as the flight is scheduled at least 7 days in advance.
- Refundable vs. Non-Refundable Tickets: Refundable fares get a cash refund, while non-refundable fares are eligible for travel credit.
- Same-Day Flight Changes: You can change your flight on the same day with no change fees, although fare differences may apply.
- Rapid Rewards Points: If you cancel a flight booked with points, you can get most of your points refunded, with a small reinstatement fee after 10 minutes.
- Travel Credit: Travel credit is valid for 12 months and can only be
