United Airlines has recently made a significant change to its basic economy fares, allowing customers to cancel these fares for the first time, the airline shared with iBestTravel.

The new policy, effective since Wednesday, permits travelers who purchase a basic economy ticket to either upgrade to a standard economy ticket or cancel their ticket for a fee. Basic economy tickets typically represent the most economical yet restrictive fare option available from airlines.

“As part of an ongoing effort to offer more flexibility, United is making it easier for customers to change their Basic Economy tickets,” a United Airlines spokeswoman stated. Customers can “either pay to upgrade to a standard economy ticket, which allows them to reschedule their flight and provide all the advantages of a standard economy ticket, including premier benefits, free seat assignments, a free carry-on bag, and more; or if they prefer not to rebook, they can cancel their trip and receive a residual credit for their basic economy ticket.”

Cancellation Fees Explained

Customers opting to cancel a basic economy ticket will receive a flight credit for the ticket’s price, minus a cancelation fee. The fees are structured as follows:

• Domestic Flights: $49.50 for one-way tickets, $99 for roundtrip tickets.
• International Flights: $99.50 for one-way tickets, $199 for roundtrip tickets.

Comparative Policies from Other Airlines

Furthermore, Delta Air Lines also allows customers to cancel a basic economy ticket for a fee between $99 to $199, according to the airline. In addition, JetBlue permits customers to cancel their Basic Blue tickets, acquired after June 8, 2021, for a fee of $100 for U.S., Caribbean, Mexico, and Central America flights, or a $200 fee on all other routes.

Conversely, airlines like American Airlines and Alaska Airlines do not allow any changes for basic economy tickets.

Previous Policy Changes by United Airlines

This change is part of an ongoing evolution in policies by United Airlines. Previously, in 2020, the airline removed change fees for all ticket types except basic economy fares. Additionally, last year, the company also initiated free same-day standby for all customers. Consequently, this policy initiated a ripple effect, prompting many U.S. airlines to follow suit.

Moreover, in September 2021, United extended the window for redeeming flight credits through December 31, 2022. This extension included all airline tickets purchased between May 1, 2019, and December 31, 2023.