Delta Airlines Cancellation Policy | WinkTravelDeals | +1-866-579-8033

When travel plans change, understanding an airline’s cancellation policy can save you both time and money. Delta Air Lines, one of the major U.S. carriers, offers a flexible and customer-friendly cancellation policy. At WinkTravelDeals, we're here to help you decode the fine print and make informed decisions before and after you book. If you need personalized assistance, call us anytime at +1-866-579-8033.

In this guide, we’ll explore:

What is Delta’s cancellation policy?

What happens if you cancel a non-refundable Delta flight?

Does Delta reimburse for cancelled flights?

When can you cancel a Delta flight without penalty?

What is the Delta Cancellation Policy?

Delta Airlines has adapted to the evolving travel landscape by offering one of the most flexible cancellation policies among U.S. airlines. As of 2025, here's how the Delta cancellation policy works based on the type of fare:

1. Main Cabin & Above (Domestic and International)

Delta no longer charges change or cancellation fees for most tickets originating from the U.S., Canada, Europe, Africa, and the Caribbean (except Basic Economy).

If you cancel your Main Cabin, Comfort+, First Class, Premium Select, or Delta One ticket, you’ll receive an eCredit for the full value of your ticket, which you can use for future travel.

2. Basic Economy

Basic Economy fares are non-refundable and non-changeable, meaning you cannot cancel or modify them unless your flight is covered under a waiver (such as COVID-19 exceptions or significant schedule changes).

However, Delta sometimes allows cancellations of Basic Economy tickets for a $99 to $199 fee depending on the route, with the remaining balance issued as an eCredit.

3. Award Tickets (Booked with Miles)

Delta SkyMiles members can cancel most award tickets with no cancellation fee, and the miles will be re-deposited into your account.

Basic Economy award tickets, if booked, follow the same restrictive policies as regular Basic Economy fares.

What Happens if You Cancel a Non-Refundable Flight?

If you booked a non-refundable ticket, here's what typically happens:

1. You Won’t Receive Cash Refunds

Non-refundable tickets are not eligible for monetary refunds unless canceled within 24 hours of booking.

2. You’ll Receive an eCredit

When you cancel, Delta will issue the fare value (minus any applicable cancellation fees for certain international routes or Basic Economy) as a Delta eCredit.

eCredits can be used for future travel within 12 months from the original issue date.

3. Fare Difference Applies on Rebooking

If the new flight you book with the eCredit is more expensive, you’ll need to pay the fare difference.

Pro Tip: Always log in to your Delta account to track your eCredits. Need help managing your credits? Call WinkTravelDeals at +1-866-579-8033 for expert assistance.

Does Delta Reimburse for Cancelled Flights?

Delta will reimburse or compensate under certain circumstances, especially if they cancel the flight:

1. Delta-Initiated Cancellations

If Delta cancels your flight for operational reasons, you are entitled to a full refund, even for non-refundable tickets.

You can also opt to be rebooked on the next available flight at no extra charge.

2. Schedule Changes or Delays

Significant schedule changes (e.g., time changes exceeding 90 minutes) qualify you for a refund or alternative flight options.

Delays due to weather or air traffic may not be eligible for reimbursement but could still allow for rebooking or waived fees.

3. Travel Waivers

In case of natural disasters, public health emergencies, or strikes, Delta may issue travel waivers, letting passengers change or cancel flights at no cost.

4. Refundable Tickets

If you purchased a refundable ticket, you can cancel anytime before departure and get your money back to the original form of payment.

When Can You Cancel a Flight Without Penalty?

There are specific windows and fare conditions when you can cancel a Delta flight without paying any penalty:

1. 24-Hour Risk-Free Cancellation

Delta offers a 24-hour risk-free cancellation on all ticket types.

You can cancel your ticket within 24 hours of booking and receive a full refund, regardless of fare class.

2. Main Cabin and Above (for U.S. Flights)

As mentioned earlier, most tickets outside of Basic Economy have no cancellation fees, and cancellations result in eCredits.

3. Award Tickets

Most award bookings can be canceled for free (excluding Basic Economy).

Miles are refunded, and any taxes or fees paid are returned to your original form of payment.

4. Under Travel Waivers or Schedule Changes

If Delta issues a travel waiver or significantly changes your flight, you can cancel without penalty—even for Basic Economy tickets.

Important Things to Know Before You Cancel

To ensure a smooth cancellation experience with Delta, keep the following tips in mind:

Always Cancel Before Departure: If you don’t show up and don’t cancel in advance, the value of your ticket may be forfeited entirely.

Use the Delta App or Website: You can manage your booking, cancel flights, and apply eCredits online.

Track Your eCredits: You must redeem eCredits before their expiration date. They are usually valid for one year from the date of purchase.

Documentation: If requesting a refund due to medical or emergency situations, be prepared to submit documentation.

How to Cancel Your Delta Flight

Follow these steps to cancel your Delta Airlines flight:

Visit www.delta.com

Go to “My Trips”

Enter your confirmation number and last name

Select your flight and click Cancel

Choose whether to request a refund or get an eCredit

Confirm the cancellation

For personalized help, call WinkTravelDeals at +1-866-579-8033 and our travel experts will guide you through the process 24/7.

Final Thoughts

Delta Airlines offers a fair and flexible cancellation policy, particularly for Main Cabin and above fares. While Basic Economy remains restrictive, there are still ways to avoid penalties through careful planning, travel waivers, or schedule changes. Whether you're booking or need to cancel a flight, WinkTravelDeals is here to help you navigate it all.

For immediate support with Delta cancellations, rebookings, or refunds, call our travel experts at +1-866-579-8033.