Airlines with the Lowest Cancellation and Change Fees

When travel plans change unexpectedly, the last thing you want is to deal with hefty cancellation or change fees. Airlines have different policies when it comes to making changes to your ticket, and some are far more budget-friendly than others. Understanding which carriers offer the lowest fees can have a huge impact on your travel experience (and your wallet).

If you're a frequent traveler or planning a big trip, knowing how to minimize costs if plans go awry is a game-changer. Let's explore some of the airlines offering the best cancellation and change fee policies. You might be surprised at how much you can save and how much easier it is to manage sudden hiccups in your travel.

The Cost of Flexibility

Before we jump into specific airlines, it’s important to understand why fees exist in the first place. Airlines impose cancellation and change fees to offset revenue losses from reselling seats or filling empty spots last minute. However, these costs can often feel punitive to passengers who encounter unexpected schedule changes.

The good news? Some airlines are revising their policies to make air travel less stressful and more flexible. These companies are redefining consumer expectations by offering low or waived fees, bringing a little relief to modern travelers.

Here’s a look at which airlines are standout performers in 2025 when it comes to customer-friendly policies.

Airlines with the Lowest or Waived Fees

1. Southwest Airlines

Southwest is often celebrated for its industry-leading fee policies. Unlike most airlines, it does not charge passengers to change or cancel their flights.

No Change Fees: You can modify your flight for free, paying only the fare difference (if any).
Flexible Refunds: If you cancel a reservation, Southwest will offer credit to be used for a future booking.

This flexibility makes Southwest a top option, especially for travelers who value peace of mind when plans might shift.

2. Alaska Airlines

Alaska Airlines is another great option, especially since eliminating change fees for most routes.

Low or No Change Fees: For many fares, there are no fees to reschedule your flight. However, basic economy tickets remain non-refundable and non-changeable.
Same-Day Changes: Alaska allows same-day confirmed changes for a small fee of around $25-$50, making it an excellent choice for practical last-minute adjustments.

Key tip? Consider upgrading from the lowest fare tier to ensure full flexibility.

3. Delta Air Lines

Delta is well-known for customer satisfaction and has removed change fees for domestic flights, along with many international itineraries.

Change Flexibility: For most standard fares, passengers can change their reservation without incurring fees, though fare differences may apply.
Refund Policy: Basic economy tickets are typically non-changeable, so opt for Main Cabin or higher if you want extra flexibility.

This fee elimination has made Delta a leading choice for travelers juggling uncertain plans.

4. United Airlines

Like Delta, United Airlines has eliminated change fees for most domestic flights and some international routes.

No Change Fees for Most Tickets: Passengers flying within the U.S., Canada, and certain long-haul routes can modify plans without a penalty. Fare differences, however, will still apply.
Flexible Same-Day Options: United offers same-day changes for a small fee of $75, unless you are a MileagePlus Premier® member.

If you’re a frequent flyer, you’ll appreciate United’s loyalty perks and flexibility.

5. JetBlue Airways

JetBlue thrives in transparency and flexibility, offering low-cost change policies that align with passenger expectations.

Refundable Options: The airline removed change fees on most fare types except for Blue Basic (its budget fare).
Competitively Low Same-Day Changes: JetBlue allows adjustments for as little as $75, depending on the fare type and ticket class.

For travelers seeking both comfort and convenience, JetBlue leads in offering a middle ground.

6. American Airlines

American Airlines joins other major carriers eliminating change fees for most domestic, short-haul international flights, and long-haul routes.

Free Changes on Standard Tickets: Standard Economy and higher fare classes are eligible for free modifications (excluding fare adjustments).
Geared Toward Flexibility: American has also adjusted its policies to allow customers more generous time windows for making changes without losing value.

American continues its effort to attract loyalty with balanced cancellation policies.

7. Hawaiian Airlines

For travelers headed to or from paradise, Hawaiian Airlines offers policies that minimize financial stress.

No Fees for Main Cabin and Higher Tickets: Relief extends across most ticket types apart from basic economy options.
Travel Credits: Hawaiian Airlines typically grants credit for cancellations, maintaining some monetary value going forward.

A convenient choice for travelers who frequent Pacific destinations.

Choose Flexibility Wisely

Airlines with budget-friendly fees make travel smoother, particularly for those juggling unpredictable schedules. However, keep in mind that choosing flexibility often starts when you book. Simple tips like opting for fare types that allow changes, adding refundable options, or purchasing travel insurance can shield you from expensive fees.

To make the best choice for your travel needs, research airline policies carefully. Familiarize yourself with “basic economy” and its restrictions to avoid surprises. Additionally, learning to identify hidden fees will help you stay informed about what you’re paying for.

When in doubt? Use resources like this guide on which airlines offer the best value for your money in 2025 for in-depth comparisons and insights.

Final Thoughts

Flexibility is key in today’s travel landscape, and airlines are taking steps to accommodate this demand. By eliminating or lowering change and cancellation fees, many are improving travel affordability and accessibility. Whether you’re booking with Southwest for the ultimate flexibility or Alaska Airlines for its budget-friendly options, understanding these policies will prepare you to manage any bumps in your travel plans.

No matter which airline you choose, remember to compare policies before purchasing your ticket. After all, your travel experience should be enjoyable—even when life throws you a curveball.

Bran Stark

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