Life happens, and travel plans don’t always go as expected. Understanding the Delta Airlines cancellation policy can help you avoid unnecessary fees, protect your ticket value, and make smarter decisions when plans change.
Delta Air Lines offers different cancellation options depending on your ticket type, booking method, and timing. Let’s explore everything you need to know about the Delta cancellation policy, refund eligibility, how to cancel your flight, and how to get your money or miles back.
Does Delta Have a Cancellation Policy?
Yes. The Delta Airlines cancellation policy allows passengers to cancel flights across all fare types, but refund eligibility and fees depend on the ticket purchased.
Delta tickets generally fall into four categories:
- Refundable tickets
- Non-refundable Main Cabin tickets
- Basic Economy tickets
- Award (SkyMiles) tickets
Each has different cancellation outcomes.
What Is Delta’s Cancellation Policy?
Delta allows you to cancel your flight based on the type of ticket purchased. Here’s how Delta handles cancellations by ticket type:
Refundable Tickets
- Cancel anytime before departure
- Receive a full refund to the original payment method
Non-Refundable Main Cabin Tickets
- No standard cancellation fee on most US routes
- Ticket value issued as a Delta eCredit
- Cash refunds generally not available
Basic Economy Tickets
- Typically non-changeable and non-refundable
- Some routes allow cancellation for eCredit minus a fee
- Best canceled within 24 hours of booking
Basic Economy Tickets
- Typically non-changeable and non-refundable
- Some routes allow cancellation for eCredit minus a fee
- Best canceled within 24 hours of booking
💡 Flying Tip: Delta frequently waives change fees but still issues eCredits instead of cash for non-refundable tickets.
Delta’s 24-Hour Cancellation Policy
Delta offers a risk-free cancellation period for all travelers.
✅ How It Works:
- Cancel within 24 hours of booking
- Full refund to original payment method
- Applies to all fare types, including Basic Economy and award tickets
- Booking must be made directly through Delta
✈️ Does This Apply to Award Tickets?
Yes. If you cancel within 24 hours, your miles will be refunded under the 24-hour Delta cancellation policy. For information you can always contact us at our phone.
How Much Does It Cost to Cancel a Delta Flight?
Cancellation fees depend on fare class and timing:
| Ticket Type | Cancellation Fee | Refund Type |
| Basic Economy | $99–$199 | eCredit (if eligible) |
| Non-Refundable | $0–$400 (varies) | eCredit |
| Refundable | $0 | Full Refund |
| Award Ticket | $0–$150 (if applicable) | Miles Reinstated |
⚠️ Fees may still apply on certain international routes.
What Is Delta’s Refund Policy?
Under the Delta Airlines cancellation policy:
- Refundable tickets → Cash refund
- Non-refundable tickets → eCredit
- Basic Economy → Refund only within 24 hours
- Award tickets → Miles returned to SkyMiles account
💡 eCredits are:
- Valid for 1 year
- Non-transferable
- Must be used by the original passenger
💡 Flying Tip: eCredits are valid for 1 year from issue and are non-transferable.
How to Cancel a Delta Flight?
You can cancel your flight in a few easy steps:
- Visit Delta.com or open the Fly Delta app.
- Click on “My Trips”.
- Enter your confirmation number and last name.
- Select your flight and click “Modify” or “Cancel Flight”.
- Follow prompts to complete the cancellation.
- Look for email confirmation and Delta refund updates.
📞 Need help? Call Flying Getaway at our phone for personalized assistance. What If Delta Cancels Your Flight?
If Delta cancels your flight:
- You may rebook for free
- Or request a full refund if you choose not to travel
- Refund applies even to non-refundable tickets
This is a key passenger right under DOT rules.
Compensation for Delta Airlines Canceled Flights
Eligible for compensation? Here’s how to claim it:
- Log in to “My Trips” and cancel any rebooked itinerary first.
- Click “Start Flight Cancellation” to request a refund.
- Use Delta’s refund tracking tool to check your status.
- Know your rights under the Delta Air Lines flight cancellations policy.
💡 Flying Tip: Use your confirmation number and ticket details to fast-track the process.
How to Avoid Delta Cancellation Fees?
Minimize or eliminate cancellation fees using these strategies:
- Book Refundable or Flexible Fares.
- Cancel within 24 hours for a full refund.
- Use Travel Insurance for added protection.
- Understand Delta’s SkyMiles Rules award tickets offer more flexibility.
💡 Delta cancellation policy with miles lets you cancel award flights up to 10 minutes before departure.
Using Miles? Here’s What You Need to Know
- SkyMiles are typically refunded after cancellation
- Cash + miles bookings return miles first
- Taxes may be refunded or converted to eCredit
Contacting Delta About a Cancelled Flight
Need help fast?
- Use the Fly Delta app for live chat support.
- Visit Delta.com and go to “Need Help?” for customer service.
- Or call Flying Getaway at our phone for quick, personalized support.
Key Takeaways
- Delta Airlines cancellation policy favors flexibility via eCredits
- Cash refunds depend on ticket type
- Award tickets offer the most flexibility
- 24-hour cancellation is your safest option
Ready to Cancel or Need Help?
If you need to cancel your Delta flight, request a refund, or rebook due to a disruption, contact the experts at Flying Getaway for quick and easy support.
📞 Call us now
✈️ We’ll help you save time, money, and miles!
FAQs: Delta Airlines Cancellation Policy
1. Can I cancel a Delta flight if my travel plans change?
Yes, Delta Airlines allows you to cancel your flight under its flexible cancellation policy. Depending on your fare type, refundable, non-refundable, Basic Economy, or award ticket, you may be eligible for either a full refund, eCredit, or miles reimbursement. Always check your specific fare conditions before canceling.
2. What is the cancellation fee for a Delta Basic Economy ticket?
Under the Delta Airlines cancellation policy, Basic Economy fares are typically non-refundable, but you may still cancel them for a fee ranging between $99 and $199, depending on your route and region. The remaining value is issued as Delta eCredit, which you can use toward future travel.
3. Will I get my SkyMiles back if I cancel an award ticket on Delta?
Yes, if you’re traveling on an award flight and need to cancel, Delta’s cancellation policy for miles ensures that your SkyMiles are refunded to your SkyMiles account. In most cases, Delta waives the miles redeposit fee, especially for cancellations made well in advance of your departure.
4. Does Delta offer a 24-hour cancellation policy for all ticket types?
Absolutely. Delta Airlines provides a 24-hour risk-free cancellation policy for all fare types, including Basic Economy and award tickets. If you cancel your ticket within 24 hours of purchase, you are entitled to a full refund to your original form of payment, no cancellation fee required. Call Flying Getaway at our phone for quick, personalized support.
5. Can I cancel a Delta flight booked with points or miles and get a refund?
Yes, tickets booked with SkyMiles or as part of the Delta SkyMiles program are eligible for cancellation. When you cancel, your miles are reinstated, and any taxes or fees paid in cash may be refunded or issued as eCredit, depending on the policy at the time of your cancellation. Call Flying Getaway at our phone for quick, personalized support.
Patrick Walker is the travel brain behind Flying Getaway. With a knack for spotting flight deals and a passion for exploring new skies, he helps travelers fly smarter and save more with every trip.
