Whether the flight is cancelled by the airline or the passenger just chooses not to travel and United Airlines has special rules for cancellation depending on the ticket purchased. Most standard cancellation fees have now been waived by the airline thus making it easy for the passenger to make changes without paying any extra. Refundable tickets allow for greater freedom but nonrefundable and Basic Economy fares are more restrictive. It's important to understand the differences in the fare types and when you are planning to put up that refund request so as not to spend money. Passengers should read the answer to what is the cancelation policy for United Airlines before booking especially if they think their travel plans may be subject to change later.

What is United Airlines Flight Cancellation Policy?

• If United Airlines cancels your flight then you can opt for a rebooking or a refund.
• If you want then you can cancel your flight within twenty four hours of booking with no cancellation charge and get a full reimbursement.
• Refundable tickets can be cancelled and refunded at least 7 days prior to the fight.
•  Basic Economy tickets are generally nonrefundable. However,in certain situations a refund request can still be accommodated. If approved then the money will be returned to the original method of payment.
• In case of cancellation or a long delay due to weather, technical issues or air traffic control problems then you can opt for cancellation and a refund.
• Cancellation fees are not charged for Flex or Premier tickets if you missed the flight.
• If you already know you cannot make the trip then go in for cancelling your flight at the earliest, preferably within an hour or less of making that decision.

How can i Cancel my United Airlines Flight online?

• Visit the United Airlines website.
• Click the "My Trips" section.
• After that fill up your booking reference number and your last name.
• Then select the flight you wanted to be cancelled
• Then tap on the "Cancel" button and confirm the cancellation process.
• After cancellation you should continue to the refund area and request your reimbursement if it is applicable.

How to Cancel a United Flight for Free?

What is the cancellation policy for United Airlines for first 24 hours? All tickets can be cancelled for a full refund in cash if cancelled within 24 hours of booking and the flight dates are at least seven days away. After 24 hours nonrefundable tickets will not be cashed, but some kind of travel credit is usually given for future use. The big exception to this is Basic Economy tickets that are once the 24-hour cancellation period passes, provide no refund or credit is provided.

Final Thoughts

The cancellation policies of United Airlines leave it up to the passenger, who may have a cancellation fee depending upon the time of cancelling and the fare type. In effect, this has made life easier on the traveller except for those holding Basic Economy tickets.  With a nonrefundable fare refunds are usually traded for flight credits. As a traveller search and study your ticket before making a cancellation decision. Understanding the ticket policy in advance will help a passenger avoid unnecessary costs and will allow him to make a better decision when his plans get altered.