Does American Airlines Charge To Change Flight?

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Are you planning to change your American Airlines flight but worried about additional charges? You’re not alone. With so many airlines implementing fees for various services, it’s understandable to wonder if American Airlines charges to change flights.

In this article, we’ll explore the policies and fees associated with changing a flight on American Airlines. We’ll cover everything from basic economy fares to elite status benefits, so you can make an informed decision without any surprises. Let’s dive in and see what American Airlines has to offer.

Does American Airlines Charge to Change Flight?

Does American Airlines Charge to Change Flight?

Changing a flight can be stressful and costly, but it is sometimes unavoidable. If you’ve booked a flight with American Airlines and need to change it, you may be wondering if there are any fees associated with making changes. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at American Airlines’ policies regarding changing flights and whether or not they charge fees for doing so.

Types of American Airlines Fares

Before we dive into American Airlines’ policies on changing flights, it’s important to understand the different types of fares they offer. American Airlines offers three main types of fares: Basic Economy, Main Cabin, and Premium Cabin. Basic Economy is the most affordable option, but it comes with several restrictions, including no seat selection and no changes or refunds. Main Cabin and Premium Cabin fares offer more flexibility, but they come with a higher price tag.

Basic Economy Fares

If you’ve booked a Basic Economy fare with American Airlines, you should be aware that changes are not permitted. This means that if you need to change your flight, you’ll need to purchase a new ticket. Additionally, Basic Economy fares are non-refundable, so if you need to cancel your trip altogether, you will not receive a refund.

Main Cabin and Premium Cabin Fares

If you’ve booked a Main Cabin or Premium Cabin fare with American Airlines, you may be able to change your flight without incurring any fees. However, there are some restrictions to keep in mind. If you change your flight within 24 hours of booking, you will not be charged a fee. If you change your flight after 24 hours but more than 60 days before your departure date, you may be charged a fee of $200 for domestic flights and $750 for international flights. If you change your flight within 60 days of your departure date, you may be charged a fee of $250 for domestic flights and $750 for international flights.

Benefits of Changing a Flight with American Airlines

There are several benefits to changing a flight with American Airlines. For example, if your travel plans change and you need to adjust your itinerary, changing your flight can help you avoid cancellation fees and the cost of purchasing a new ticket. Additionally, if you’re a member of American Airlines’ loyalty program, AAdvantage, you may be able to change your flight for free or at a reduced cost, depending on your membership status.

Alternatives to Changing Your Flight

If you’re unable to change your flight with American Airlines or don’t want to pay the associated fees, there are a few alternatives to consider. One option is to cancel your flight altogether and book a new one with a different airline. Another option is to try to get a refund for your ticket and use the money to purchase a new one. Keep in mind, however, that canceling a flight may result in a cancellation fee, and getting a refund may not always be possible.

The Bottom Line

In conclusion, American Airlines charges fees for changing flights, but the amount of the fee depends on several factors, including the type of fare you’ve booked and how far in advance you’re making the change. If you need to change your flight, it’s important to review American Airlines’ policies and fees carefully to avoid any surprises. Additionally, consider the benefits of changing your flight, as well as alternatives to changing it, before making a decision.

Frequently Asked Questions

Find below the answers to the most commonly asked questions about American Airlines flight changes.

What is the American Airlines flight change policy?

American Airlines allows passengers to change their flights, subject to availability and fare difference. The airline charges a change fee, which varies depending on the fare type, destination, and the time of change. Passengers can make flight changes online through the Manage Reservations section of the American Airlines website or by calling the airline’s customer service.

Please note that some fares, such as Basic Economy, are non-refundable and non-changeable, while others, such as First and Business class, may have more flexible change policies.

How much does American Airlines charge to change a flight?

American Airlines charges a change fee for flight changes, which ranges from $0 to $750 per person, depending on the fare type, destination, and the time of change. The airline may also charge a fare difference if the new flight is more expensive than the original flight. Passengers can check the exact change fee and fare difference by going to the Manage Reservations section of the American Airlines website or by calling the airline’s customer service.

Passengers with elite status or certain credit cards may be exempt from change fees or may receive reduced fees, depending on the airline’s policies and promotions.

Can I change my American Airlines flight for free?

Some American Airlines fares, such as Fully Flexible and First and Business Class, may allow free flight changes or waive the change fee. However, most fares, including Basic Economy and Main Cabin, require a change fee, which varies depending on the fare type, destination, and the time of change.

Passengers with elite status or certain credit cards may be exempt from change fees or may receive reduced fees, depending on the airline’s policies and promotions. Additionally, passengers can purchase travel insurance that covers flight changes and cancellations, although the terms and coverage vary widely among insurers.

How can I avoid paying the American Airlines change fee?

Passengers can avoid paying the American Airlines change fee by booking a fare that allows free changes or waives the fee, such as Fully Flexible or First and Business Class. Additionally, passengers with elite status or certain credit cards may be exempt from change fees or may receive reduced fees, depending on the airline’s policies and promotions.

Another way to avoid paying the change fee is to make sure that the flight changes are due to circumstances beyond the passenger’s control, such as a medical emergency, a death in the family, or a natural disaster. In such cases, the airline may waive the change fee or offer a refund, although the passenger may need to provide documentation or proof of the circumstances.

How can I change my American Airlines flight?

Passengers can change their American Airlines flight online through the Manage Reservations section of the American Airlines website or by calling the airline’s customer service. To change a flight online, passengers need to enter their name and record locator or ticket number, select the flight they want to change, and choose a new flight that meets their travel needs.

If there is a change fee or fare difference, passengers need to pay it online or by phone with a credit card. Passengers can also cancel their flight and receive a refund or credit for future travel, depending on the fare type and the time of cancellation.

How to Change Flight Date on American Airlines


In conclusion, American Airlines charges fees for changing flights, but the amount varies depending on the type of ticket and the changes made. Passengers should check their ticket terms and conditions to know the exact fees they may face for flight changes. If the ticket allows for free changes, it’s always best to make changes as soon as possible to avoid paying any fees.

That being said, American Airlines offers a flexible policy for changing flights due to unforeseen circumstances such as illness, jury duty, or military deployment. Passengers will not be charged for changes made due to these reasons, but they may need to provide documentation as proof.

In the end, it is always wise to read and understand the terms and conditions of your ticket before making any changes to your flight. This will help you avoid any unexpected fees and ensure a smoother travel experience.

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