Southwest Airlines Cancellation Policy: Everything You Need to Know

Southwest Airlines offers flexible and customer-friendly cancellation policies to accommodate the changing travel plans of its passengers. With its easy-to-understand regulations and reasonable fees, Southwest stands out as a leader in the industry.

Cancellation Fees and Waivers

Non-Refundable Fares:

• Basic fares purchased on or after April 11, 2023 are non-refundable.
• Cancellation fees apply if a non-refundable fare is canceled within 24 hours of purchase.

Refundable Fares:

• Fares purchased on or before April 10, 2023 are refundable.
• Cancellation fees do not apply to refundable fares.

Travel Credits for Non-Refundable Fares:

• For non-refundable fares, passengers can cancel their flight within 24 hours of purchase or up to 10 minutes before departure without incurring cancellation fees.
• The canceled ticket's value will be converted into a travel credit valid for one year from the original departure date.

Cancellation Process

Canceling a Southwest Airlines flight can be done through the following methods:

• Online: Visit southwest.com and log into your account. Click on "My Trips" and select the flight you wish to cancel.
• Phone: Call Southwest Airlines at 1-800-435-9792.
• In Person: Visit a Southwest Airlines ticket counter at the airport.

Fees and Penalties

• Cancellation fee for non-refundable fares within 24 hours of purchase: $25
• Cancellation fee for non-refundable fares canceled after 24 hours of purchase: $200

Exceptions and Flexibilities

Southwest Airlines offers several exceptions to its cancellation policy:

• Involuntary Cancellations: If Southwest Airlines cancels a flight due to weather, mechanical issues, or other unforeseen circumstances, passengers are entitled to a full refund or travel credit.
• Medical Emergencies: Passengers who provide proof of a medical emergency may be eligible for a refund or travel credit, even if they purchased a non-refundable fare.
• Military Deployment: Active military members and their families may be eligible for a refund or travel credit if they have received deployment orders.

Additional Policies

• Checked Bags: Fees associated with checked bags may be refunded if the flight is canceled by Southwest Airlines.
• Seat Changes: Southwest Airlines does not charge fees for changing seats on non-refundable fares.
• Refunds on International Flights: Refunds on international flights may be subject to additional fees and restrictions.

Tips for Cancelling a Flight

• Cancel promptly: Cancellation fees increase the closer you get to the departure date.
• Check your fare type: Determine if you have a refundable or non-refundable fare before canceling.
• Document any exceptions: Keep evidence of medical emergencies or military deployment orders to support your request for a refund or travel credit.

Tables for Reference

Table 1: Cancellation Fees

Table 2: Cancellation Methods

Table 3: Exceptions to Cancellation Policy

Table 4: Additional Policies

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I cancel my flight online?
   - Yes, you can cancel your flight online by logging into your Southwest Airlines account.

2. What is the cancellation fee for a non-refundable fare?
   - The cancellation fee for a non-refundable fare within 24 hours of purchase is $25. After 24 hours, the fee is $200.

3. What is the cancellation policy for refundable fares?
   - Passengers can cancel refundable fares at any time without incurring a cancellation fee.

4. What documentation do I need to provide for a medical emergency cancellation?
   - You must provide a doctor's note or other acceptable medical documentation to support your request.

5. Can I change my seat after I have canceled my flight?
   - Yes, Southwest Airlines does not charge fees for changing seats on non-refundable fares.

6. What is the best way to avoid cancellation fees?
   - Purchase a refundable fare or cancel your flight within 24 hours of purchase.

   

7. Does Southwest Airlines offer travel credits?
   - Yes, the canceled ticket's value can be converted into a travel credit valid for one year from the original departure date.

8. How do I contact Southwest Airlines for assistance with cancellations?
   - You can call Southwest Airlines at 1-800-435-9792 or visit a Southwest Airlines ticket counter at the airport.