Our Thoughts
United and Delta Airlines have dropped change fees permanently. The policy is effective immediately and covers tickets purchased for travel within the US, Puerto Rico and the US Virgin Islands. As of October 1, American Airlines’ withdrawal of change fees will cover a wider range of destinations.
United and Delta Airlines have dropped change fees permanently. The policy is effective immediately and covers tickets purchased for travel within the United States, Puerto Rico and the US Virgin Islands. The policy applies to First Class, Delta Premium Select, Delta Comfort+ and Main Cabin fares.
As of October 1, American Airlines’ withdrawal of change fees will cover a wider range of destinations in the airline’s network. In addition to all domestic flights, plus Puerto Rico and the US Virgin Islands, the carrier’s policy will also apply to select short-haul international destinations, including Canada, Mexico and the Caribbean.
United, Delta and American Airlines all state that basic economy fares are not included, since they do not allow changes anyway. Plus, most international flights are excluded from the new policy. However the three airlines are extending waivers on change fees for newly purchased flights, including international flights and basic economy fares, through the end of the year.
Charging fees for changes and rebookings has long been a sore point with travelers since they were instituted by airlines years ago. The elimination of these fees is another step the industry is taking to lure travelers back as revenue’s dropped during the pandemic.
My prediction? Other major airlines are soon to follow suit.
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