Can I get my miles back if I change or cancel my award flight? When canceling a flight that was purchased using miles, most airlines do not charge a cancellation fee. It is generally free to get your miles reinstated and even the taxes and fees you paid will usually be refunded.

Yes, air miles are generally refundable, but the process is usually called "mileage reinstatement" and often comes with specific conditions and fees. If you book an award flight using miles and then choose to cancel your ticket, most major airlines—including American, United, and Lufthansa (Miles & More)—will credit the miles back to your account. However, you must typically cancel before the first flight in your itinerary departs. Many airlines now offer free mileage reinstatement for all members as a post-pandemic perk, while others may charge a fee (often around $50 to $150 or a specific Euro amount) unless you hold elite status. It is important to note that miles are usually not refundable if you used them for a "Non-Refundable" or "Web Special" award that explicitly stated the miles would be forfeited upon cancellation. Additionally, any "taxes and fees" paid in cash alongside the miles are usually refunded to your original form of payment, though this can take longer than the miles appearing back in your digital wallet, which usually happens within 24 to 72 hours.