What is the cancellation policy for Alaska airlines?
Alaska Airlines allows passengers to cancel flights under specific rules depending on the type of ticket you purchase. While some tickets offer full refunds, others may only give you credit for future travel. The cancellation policy applies to all fare types, including Saver, Main Cabin, First Class, and award tickets booked with miles.
Alaska Airlines 24-Hour Risk-Free Cancellation Policy
Alaska Airlines offers a 24-hour risk-free cancellation window. If you cancel your flight within 24 hours of booking and your flight is at least 24 hours away, you’ll get a full refund no questions asked. This applies to all fare types, including Saver fares.
You can cancel through the Alaska Airlines website, mobile app, or by calling customer support. However, if you booked through a third-party travel agency, you’ll need to contact them directly.
Cancellation Rules by Fare Type
Saver Fare Cancellation Policy
Saver fares are the most restrictive. These tickets are non-refundable and non-changeable unless canceled within 24 hours of booking. After that, you won’t get a refund or credit unless Alaska cancels the flight.
Main Cabin Fare Cancellation Policy
Main Cabin tickets offer more flexibility. If you cancel after the 24-hour window, you won’t get a cash refund, but you’ll receive a travel credit in your Alaska Airlines account. No cancellation fees apply in most cases.
First Class Fare Cancellation Policy
First Class tickets offer the best flexibility. You can cancel these flights without fees, and you’ll either get your money back to your original payment method or receive a travel credit depending on the type of First Class ticket you bought (refundable or non-refundable).
Award Ticket Cancellation Policy
If you booked your flight using miles, you can cancel and get your miles back. Alaska may charge a small fee unless you have elite status, but often these cancellations are free, especially if done online.
Refundable vs Non-Refundable Tickets
Refundable tickets give you your money back to your original form of payment when you cancel. Non-refundable tickets usually don’t offer cash refunds instead, you’ll get a travel credit to use later.
When booking, make sure to check whether your ticket is refundable. If it doesn’t clearly say “Refundable,” then it’s most likely non-refundable.
Alaska Airlines Cancellation Fees
Alaska Airlines no longer charges standard cancellation fees for Main or First Class fares. However, Saver fares still have restrictions. Award tickets may have a small service charge if canceled close to departure.
There are no cancellation fees for:
- Main and First Class tickets
- MVP Elite members
- Tickets canceled within 24 hours of booking
How to Cancel an Alaska Airlines Flight
You can cancel your flight in several ways:
Online:
- Visit alaskaair
- Log into your account or enter your confirmation code
- Find your trip and select “Cancel”
On the App:
- Open the Alaska Airlines mobile app
- Go to “Trips”
- Select your flight and choose “Cancel Flight”
By Phone:
Call Alaska Airlines customer support and provide your name, confirmation number, and flight details.
Alaska Airlines Flight Change vs Cancellation
Changing a flight means you still plan to travel, just on a different flight or date. Canceling means you’re no longer taking the trip at all.
Alaska allows free changes for Main and First Class tickets. Saver fares cannot be changed, only canceled within 24 hours of booking.
Same-day flight changes are allowed for a fee, but are free for elite members. Standby options are available in some cases.
Cancellations Due to Weather or Airline-Initiated Disruptions
If Alaska Airlines cancels your flight due to weather, mechanical issues, or other reasons, you’re eligible for a full refund or a free rebooking on the next available flight. You can also choose to receive a credit if you prefer not to travel right away.
Alaska Airlines Refund Policy
If your ticket qualifies for a refund, it will usually be returned to your original payment method. Refunds are typically processed within 7 to 10 business days. If your ticket is non-refundable, you’ll get a travel credit to your Alaska Airlines “My Wallet” account.
Travel credits can be used for future bookings and don’t expire for at least 12 months.
Special Circumstances for Full Refunds
In special cases, Alaska Airlines may offer a full refund even for non-refundable tickets. These include:
- Illness or medical emergencies
- Death in the family
- Military deployment
You will need to provide documentation, such as a doctor’s note, death certificate, or military orders. Alaska Airlines reviews these on a case-by-case basis.
Contacting Alaska Airlines for Cancellation Support
To speak with Alaska Airlines about canceling a flight:
- Phone (U.S. & Canada): 1-800-252-7522 (1-800-ALASKAAIR)
- Hours: 24/7
- It’s best to call early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid long hold times.
Alaska Airlines Cancellation Policy for MVP Elite Members
MVP, MVP Gold, MVP Gold 75K, and MVP Gold 100K members enjoy extra flexibility. These elite members can cancel or change flights with no fees, even on some Saver fares. They also get priority for rebooking and standby.
International vs Domestic Cancellation Rules
The basic cancellation rules are similar, but refunds for international tickets may take longer to process. You may also deal with foreign taxes, exchange rates, and international customer service teams depending on your route.
Unaccompanied Minors and Group Booking Cancellations
Flights booked for unaccompanied minors or large groups (10 or more) often can’t be canceled online. You’ll need to contact Alaska Airlines directly to cancel these bookings.
Alaska Airlines Travel Credit (My Wallet)
If you cancel a non-refundable ticket, Alaska usually adds a travel credit to your “My Wallet” account. You can use this credit to book future travel.
- Credits are valid for 12 months
- You can use them for yourself or others
- They are automatically applied when you book your next trip
Alaska Airlines Same-Day Cancellation and Change Policy
Same-day changes and cancellations are allowed for most tickets except Saver fares. You can make these changes starting at midnight on the day of departure. Fees may apply unless you’re an MVP Elite member.
Alaska Airlines Cancellation Due to Illness or Emergency
If you or a close family member is sick or in an emergency, Alaska Airlines may allow a refund or offer travel credit. You will need to provide a doctor’s note or other proof, and decisions are made case by case.
Canceling Flights Booked with Miles or Points
When you cancel a flight booked with Mileage Plan miles:
- Your miles are usually returned to your account
- You may have to pay a small redeposit fee
- MVP Elite members often have these fees waived
Alaska Airlines Cancelled Flight Compensation
If Alaska Airlines cancels your flight, you’re entitled to a refund or free rebooking. You may also be offered meal or hotel vouchers in cases of long delays, especially for overnight disruptions.
Alaska Airlines Cancellation Policy: Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Assuming Saver fares are refundable They’re not after 24 hours
- Missing the 24-hour cancellation window
- Not using travel credits before they expire
- Booking through third-party sites and expecting Alaska to cancel for you
Conclusion
Understanding the Alaska Airlines cancellation policy can save you time, money, and stress especially if your travel plans change unexpectedly. Whether you’re dealing with a Saver fare, using travel credits, or canceling due to an emergency, knowing the rules ahead of time helps you make smarter choices.
If you ever need help canceling a flight or have questions about Alaska’s policies, you can always reach out to their customer support or visit AerolineaTelefono for clear, updated information and assistance with all your airline-related concerns.
FAQ
Can I cancel an Alaska Airlines flight if I booked it through a travel agency?
Yes, but you’ll need to reach out to the travel agency or booking site you used. Alaska Airlines can’t directly cancel flights made through third-party platforms. For direct bookings, it’s easier to cancel through the website, app, or by calling their official support you can find the right contact on aerolineatelefono.
Are Alaska Airlines travel credits transferable to someone else?
In many cases, yes. If you have travel credits in your “My Wallet” account, you can use them to book a ticket for someone else. Just make sure you’re the one completing the booking through your account.
What happens to prepaid baggage fees if I cancel my flight?
If you’ve already paid for bags and your Alaska Airlines flight gets canceled, you’ll usually receive a refund for those fees. The refund may be returned to your card or issued as a travel credit.
Can I cancel just one leg of a round-trip flight on Alaska Airlines?
That depends on the type of ticket you booked. Some fares don’t allow partial cancellations, so if you cancel one leg, the whole reservation may be affected. It’s best to call aerolineatelefono or check with Alaska’s customer support before making any changes.
If I had a seat upgrade and cancel my flight, do I lose the upgrade?
Yes. Once you cancel the flight, any seat upgrades whether paid or complimentary will be removed. If you rebook, you’ll need to request or purchase the upgrade again, depending on availability.
Do MVP Gold members have to pay cancellation fees?
No, Alaska Airlines waives cancellation and change fees for MVP Gold, Gold 75K, and 100K members on eligible fares. This makes rescheduling or canceling flights much easier for elite travelers.
Can I cancel my Alaska Airlines flight through the mobile app?
Yes, the Alaska Airlines app lets you view upcoming trips and cancel them easily. It’s often faster than calling and is available 24/7, making it a convenient option.
How soon after canceling will my Alaska travel credit be available?
Travel credits typically show up in your “My Wallet” account within a few hours. In some cases, it might take up to 24 hours, but you’ll usually be able to reuse them quickly for a new booking.
Does Alaska Airlines charge cancellation fees for children’s tickets?
Children and infants are subject to the same cancellation rules as adults. If the fare is cancelable, there won’t be extra fees just because the passenger is a minor.
Can I cancel an Alaska Airlines ticket at the airport?
Yes, you can visit the ticket counter at the airport and ask a representative to help you cancel your flight. That said, it’s often quicker to do it online or by calling the airline contact numbers are available through aerolineatelefono if you need help.