Flight Change Fees and Fare Restrictions Explained
Many airlines dropped change fees on standard fares, yet restrictions remain. The name of your fare tells you more than the airline’s brand. If you want help with your own booking, call 1-855-365-0395.
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At a glance
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Look for | Fare name on your receipt |
| Common limits | No changes, credit-only cancellation, no same-day change |
| Fee versus difference | A fee is a charge; a fare difference is the gap between flights |
| Next step | Read the rules for your exact fare |
| Help line | 1-855-365-0395 |
Entry-level versus standard fares
Entry-level fares, often named Basic Economy, Basic or Saver, are the most restricted. Standard fares generally allow more changes. See airline policies compared.
Ask both questions
Whenever you change, ask two things: is there a fee, and is there a fare difference. They are different.
Step by step
- Find the fare name.
- Open the airline’s rules for it.
- Ask about fee and fare difference.
- Consider whether a more flexible fare fits the trip.
How major airlines handle fees and fare restrictions
Fare names and rules differ by airline and change often. Use these notes as a starting point and confirm your own fare.
Delta Air Lines
Main Cabin and higher fares are generally more flexible than Basic Economy. For fees and fare restrictions, what you can do still depends on your fare, so confirm it before you decide.
American Airlines
Its Basic Economy fare is usually the most restricted option. For fees and fare restrictions, check the rules attached to your own fare on American Airlines’s website or app.
United Airlines
Standard economy and above generally allow more changes than Basic Economy. For fees and fare restrictions, what you can do still depends on your fare, so confirm it before you decide.
Southwest Airlines
Its Basic fare (one of four: Basic, Choice, Choice Preferred and Choice Extra) is usually the most restricted option. For fees and fare restrictions, check the rules attached to your own fare on Southwest Airlines’s website or app.
Alaska Airlines
Saver fares are the most restricted, while main cabin fares are more flexible. For fees and fare restrictions, what you can do still depends on your fare, so confirm it before you decide.
JetBlue Airways
Its Blue Basic fare is usually the most restricted option. For fees and fare restrictions, check the rules attached to your own fare on JetBlue Airways’s website or app.
Air Canada
Flights to, from or within Canada may also fall under Canadian passenger protection rules. For fees and fare restrictions, what you can do still depends on your fare, so confirm it before you decide.
Lufthansa
Its entry-level economy fare is usually the most restricted option. For fees and fare restrictions, check the rules attached to your own fare on Lufthansa’s website or app.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Buying the most restricted fare for an uncertain trip.
- Assuming all airlines match.
- Not comparing rules before booking.
Questions people ask
Do all airlines charge fees?
No; rules differ and change.
What is a fare difference?
The extra amount if the new flight is higher.
Can I upgrade my fare?
Sometimes; ask.
Ready to sort this out?
Call the travel assistance line and have your confirmation code and travel dates ready.
Call 1-855-365-0395Independent travel assistance line. Not an airline phone number.
Independent information service. VerdictSpot Travel Help is not an airline and is not affiliated with, endorsed by or sponsored by any airline. Airline names are trademarks of their owners and are used only to describe the topics covered. Airline rules change often; confirm current terms for your own ticket. You can also manage many bookings yourself on the airline’s own website or app. If you call, ask the agent to explain any service fee before you agree to anything.