Southwest Airlines Flight Cancellation Policy Guide " Cancelling A Flight by Phone
Southwest Airlines offers one of the most flexible cancellation policies among major airlines, designed to provide passengers with ease and convenience when unexpected changes arise. Whether you need to cancel within 24 hours, manage a flight booked with points, or cancel by phone, understanding Southwest’s policy can help you make informed decisions and avoid unnecessary fees.
Understanding Southwest Airlines Cancel Flight Policy :
Southwest’s cancellation policy prioritizes flexibility, catering to passengers with varying travel plans and booking methods. With key options for both refundable and non-refundable fares, passengers can easily adjust their flights or cancel without losing money.
Southwest Airlines 24-Hour Cancellation Policy
Southwest Airlines adheres to a 24-hour cancellation policy allowing full refunds if the cancellation occurs within 24 hours of booking. This policy applies to all fare types, providing a risk-free window to adjust or cancel a booking if travel plans change.
Southwest Airlines Cancel Flight Credit Policy
For passengers canceling flights beyond the 24-hour window, Southwest Airlines typically issues a credit instead of a refund for non-refundable fares. This credit is usable for future bookings, valid up to one year from the original purchase date, and applies to both points-based and cash-based bookings.
Cancelling Your Southwest Airlines Flight Reservation :
Southwest Airlines provides multiple methods to cancel flight reservations, ensuring convenience and flexibility for travelers. Here’s a closer look at various ways to cancel a Southwest flight.
How to Cancel Southwest Airlines Flight Booked with Points ?
If you used Southwest Rapid Rewards points for your booking, you could cancel without any penalties. Upon cancellation, the points return to your Rapid Rewards account, while any taxes or fees paid during booking are refunded in the original form of payment. This policy offers a hassle-free way to manage points-based bookings.
Southwest Airlines Cancelling a Flight by Phone :
For passengers who prefer personal assistance, Southwest provides a dedicated phone line to manage cancellations. Call Southwest Airlines’ customer service at +1800-435-9792 to speak with a representative who can help you cancel your reservation and inform you of any applicable credits or fees.
Southwest Airlines Flight Cancellation Fees and Conditions :
While Southwest Airlines is known for its no-fee cancellation policy on refundable tickets, there are some details to consider depending on fare type and timing:
- Non-Refundable Fares: For non-refundable fare types, passengers are eligible for a travel credit but not a cash refund. This credit applies to future Southwest flights and must be used within 12 months from the date of original purchase.
- Refundable Fares: For refundable fares, passengers may choose between a travel credit or a cash refund, which can be transferred back to the original payment method.
- Points Bookings: Points used for bookings are fully refundable. Any cash portion, such as taxes or fees, is also refundable, adding further flexibility for Rapid Rewards members.
Can I cancel a Southwest flight within 24 hours for free?
Yes, Southwest Airlines offers a full refund if you cancel your flight within 24 hours of booking. This applies to all fare types, including Wanna Get Away, Anytime, and Business Select fares
How do I get credit if I cancel a Southwest flight?
For non-refundable fares, Southwest issues a travel credit if you cancel. This credit applies to future flights and is valid for 12 months from the original purchase date.
Is there a Southwest cancellation fee for non-refundable flights?
No. Southwest Airlines does not charge cancellation fees for non-refundable fares; however, you receive a travel credit rather than a cash refund.
What happens if I cancel a flight booked with points?
If you cancel a points booking, the points are credited back to your Rapid Rewards account. Any cash fees or taxes paid are refunded to the original payment method.
