What do change fees cover?

Change Fee: This is a fee the airline charges to make a change to a reservation, typically to rebook on a different flight. Cancellation (Refund) Fee: This is a fee the airline charges to cancel a reservation and process a refund.



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Fares with no change fees are useful for passengers who need the flexibility (they may have to change their plans), but there's no magic trick which will give you an expensive ticket for less. There is no such thing as a free lunch with airline tickets.

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Many airlines have currently waived change fees for economy fares and higher, but still require change fees for basic economy fares. These fees can range from $25 to $100+, depending on the airline's policy.

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In general, this type of policy covers flight delay, trip cancellation or trip interruption, and lost, damaged, or stolen luggage up to the plan limit. It also covers you if you're not able to fly due to a documented medical reason on the date of your trip.

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They also admit that change fees aren't just a significant revenue source for the major airlines; in fact, these companies have built their business models around them and similar fees, such as luggage fees and other ancillary charges. In short, the fees are a source of major profit. And the airline industry is hooked.

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What does it mean when airlines say no change fees? Of course, if a new flight a passenger wants to book is higher in price than the original, the customer still has to pay the fare difference. No change fees simply means there isn't an extra penalty over and above that fare difference.

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Airlines are required by the U.S. Department of Transportation to refund your money if you cancel a flight within 24 hours of booking unless they offer a free 24-hour hold option when shopping for tickets.

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Plane tickets usually don't get cheaper closer to the departure date. Flights tend to be the most inexpensive when you book between four months and three weeks before your departure date. According to the CheapAir 2019 Annual Airfare Study, you can expect rates to go up after that period.

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If your flight is delayed by the airline, you may be entitled to flight delay compensation. What are the risks of traveling without travel insurance? Traveling without travel insurance means you may have to pay out of your own pocket if something doesn't go as planned.

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International flights originating in the U.S. If you're flying on a Basic Economy ticket, you can't change your flight unless you upgrade to Economy or a premium cabin first. International flights that don't originate in the U.S. can be changed but change fees still apply.

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Non-refundable tickets cannot be returned for a refund. However, if you cannot use your ticket, you may be able to apply its value toward a future flight. The airline may charge additional fees for changes made to a non-refundable ticket.

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Understanding the Three Fee Types and How They Are Applied
  • Amortizing Fees. Amortizing fees, also known as deferred fees, are applied when the loan is originally opened. ...
  • Miscellaneous Fees. Miscellaneous fees are applied after a loan is opened when certain actions take place on the account. ...
  • Maintenance Fees (P/I Fee)


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