Delta Airlines Cancellation Policy

Any passenger with a Delta Airlines ticket could require a flight cancellation due to multiple reasons. A sudden change in their travel itinerary or unforeseen weather conditions could be one of the reasons behind the flight cancellation.

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Delta Airlines cancellation Policy

However, the entire cancellation procedure is not so easy. So, you have to obtain all the essential details about the ticket cancellation before knowing how to cancel.

Therefore, Delta Airlines cancel flight policy is designed to help travellers in such circumstances. The policy is customer-oriented, flexible, and helpful for passengers to cancel a flight. Additionally, it lets travellers get a refund or future travel credit in unpredictable incidents (death) or some other scenarios. 

Now, without wasting any further seconds, let's explore more interesting and obligatory details about the Delta cancellation policy through the sections provided in this guide. Hence, read all the information thoroughly for a smooth process. 

Delta Flight Cancellation Policy: Major Highlights 

Before you cancel a flight on Delta Airlines, you must consider a few essential points about the cancellation policy. We have mentioned some details below: 

  • The airline lets you cancel the flights in Economy, Business, or First class. But, you may have to pay the cancellation charges if applicable. 
  • You can cancel the Delta flight within 24 hours of reservation and collect a full refund without any cancellation charges. 
  • In case you make a cancellation after 24 hours of booking, you will not get a full Delta flight cancel refund. 
  • The cancellation policy allows you to get refunds on non-refundable flights whenever you cancel them under the 24-hour cancellation policy. 
  • Moreover, the airline has the authority to cancel your flight due to various circumstances, such as technical issues, weather conditions, etc. Additionally, the airline provides you with a complete refund or another flight option.  
  • Suppose you made a cancellation due to personal reasons, you have to submit the documents to verify the issue and obtain a complete refund for it. 

Delta Airlines Cancellation On Different Fare Types 

Delta Airlines cancel flight policy has different guidelines and policies for various fare types. Additionally, each class has a different cancellation fee. So now just go through the details provided below to get a better understanding: 

1- Delta Refundable Tickets

  • Passengers with refundable flight tickets don't have to pay any Delta flight cancellation fee, whenever they request for a refund. 
  • You are permitted to cancel your flight before your flight departure and obtain a complete refund to your actual form of payment. 
  • As per the Delta Airlines cancellation policy, refundable tickets provide excessive flexibility. Even though the tickets are a bit costly, but, permit you to cancel without charging any fine/penalty. 

2- Cancel Non-Refundable Flight Delta 

  • If you have non-refundable flight tickets in classes including Delta Comfort+, Main Cabin, and First Class, you are allowed to cancel the flight and obtain an eCredit for future journeys. But, in this scenario, you have to pay the Delta flight cancelation fee based on your fare type and destination. 
  • Remember that the validity of eCredit will be only for one year starting from the purchase date. 

3- Cancelling A Delta Flight Booked With Miles 

  • If you have reserved Delta SkyMiles award tickets in Main Cabin or any other premium class, you have the authority to cancel them without paying any charges. Moreover, all the miles will be deposited into your account again. Additionally, if there are any fees or taxes, they will be refunded. 
  • You cannot change or cancel Basic Economy award tickets once the 24-hour grace period ends. 

4- Cancelling The Basic Economy Tickets

  • Non-refundable and Non-Changeable: If you have Delta Basic Economy ticket, you must know that it's not as flexible as other fare types. Additionally, after 24 hours of grace-period, you are allowed to cancel for a refund or modify these tickets. 
  • Exceptions: In some exceptional circumstances like a serious health issue or death in the family the airline may permit you to cancel. However, submitting the documents is a must. 

Understand The Delta Flight Cancellation Policy 24 Hours

According to the Delta Airlines 24-hour flight cancellation policy, you can cancel the flight due to any circumstances within 24 hours of initial reservation. After doing so, you will get a full refund using your original payment method. But here are a few conditions you must be aware of: 

  • Delta 24 hour flight cancellation policy is for you if you have a reservation within 24 hours and want to cancel your flight at least seven days before your scheduled departure. 
  • Despite the type of tickets you booked, including the Basic economy and non-refundable flights, you are eligible to use this policy.
  • If you have a SkyMiles reward account ticket, you are allowed to apply for Delta cancel flight booked with miles rather than the 24-hour cancellation policy. 
  • Flights operating from the US and Canada can be cancelled using the 24-hour cancellation policy. Additionally, these flights cannot be rescheduled or reserved using the retrieved travel credit. 
  • Furthermore, if you have a group reservation, Delta Airlines 24 hours cancellation policy is not applicable. In such a situation, reaching out to customer support staff is the best move. 

Steps To Cancel A Delta Flight Under The 24-Hour Cancellation Policy

Delta 24 hour flight cancellation policy lets you make the cancellation and get a refund using the online approach. Ensure to proceed with the steps within 24 hours of the reservation. Here is the mini-guide you should consider: 

  • First, head to the official Delta Airlines website.
  • Secondly, navigate to the "My Trips" option. 
  • Afterward, from the available list of reservations, choose the flight you want to cancel. 
  • Then, tap on the "Need To Cancel?" option. 
  • Further, continue using the on-screen directions to conclude the process. 
Tips: if you just booked & want to secure your preferred seating, then check out our complete guide to the Delta seat selection policy for tips on choosing the best seat for your trip.

Delta Flight Cancel Refund Policy: Eligibility & Methods

Delta Airlines refund policy is useful for you as it lets you get an entire refund when you cancel your flight within 24-hour of reservation and the reservation was made at least seven days before the scheduled departure. Additionally, if the cancellation is requested by your side, you are eligible to ask for a refund in the following situations: 

  • Passengers who have a refundable Delta ticket are eligible to ask for a refund. 
  • If you cancel Delta flight within 24 hours, you can get a refund for the flight ticket. 
  • Once the 24 hours gets completed, the refund will surely depend on the type of ticket you have purchased. 

Once you discover the eligibility criteria for a refund on Delta Airlines, it's time to know the refund criteria for both refundable and non-refundable tickets. 

Refundable Airlines Flight Ticket 

  • As per the policy, travelers will get a full refund if they have a refundable ticket and the cancellation is made prior to their flight departure. 
  • The refund amount will directly go back to their original payment mode. 

Non-Refundable Airlines Flight Ticket 

  • Passengers don't receive a complete Delta flight cancellation refund, if they have non-refundable tickets. 
  • Additionally, they will get an eCredit after subtracting the cancellation fee. 
  • Be sure to cancel prior to your flight time. 

Delta Airlines Refund Method: Refundable & Non-Refundable Tickets 

Whether you want to cancel your refundable or non-refundable tickets for a refund, you have to go through some specific steps for an effortless process. 

1- For Refundable Tickets

  • The initial step is to open the official Delta Airlines website. 
  • Secondly, retrieve your registered account. 
  • Go to the "My Trips" option available on your screen.
  • Then, pick the flight that you wish to cancel. 
  • After that, head to the "Cancel" tab and go through the provided directions. 
  • Once done, your refund will be credited to your original payment method. 

2- For Refundable Tickets

  • Firstly, you have to go to the official website. 
  • Secondly, by entering the correct details, log in. 
  • Further, head to the "My Trips" option. 
  • Then, choose the reservation you want to cancel. 
  • Now, choose the "Need To Cancel" option. 
  • Proceed by considering the on-screen instructions. 
  • At last, you will obtain an eCredit for future travel without any cancellation fees. 

Points To Consider 

  • Credit Card: If you cancel a Delta flight and you are eligible for a refund, you will get it back to your original payment mode within 7-10 working days for credit cards.
  • Cash/Card: If you have made a payment in cash, then the amount will be refunded to the passenger whose name is written on the plane ticket. Note that the entire process may take 20 days to complete. 
  • If it's an international refund, you may have to wait a bit longer than in the above two situations. 

NOTE: You can head to the official airline's website or get in touch with the customer support team to check the refund status for Delta Airlines cancel flight. 

Delta Flight Cancellation Due To Special Circumstances

Sometimes, it's not about changing plans but a sudden medical emergency or weather conditions, due to which you cancel the flight, or your flight gets canceled by the airline. But, whatever those special circumstances could be, the airline assists you in every circumstance. Now, let's explore the cancellation policy in depth in both circumstances (weather conditions and medical emergencies).

Delta Flight Canceled Due To Weather

Delta Airlines genuinely understands that a sudden change in weather may affect your journey. But, to help you in that situation, the airline offers different options as mentioned below: 

  • Flight Changes Due To Weather Change: Under the Delta Airlines weather cancellation policy, travelers are allowed to change their flight due to bad weather. These flight changes may include booking the next available flight, delaying your trip, changing your destination, and more. 
  • Rebooking Options: You surely get an option to choose other flights including a reservation on a different flight with a different airline or utilizing a mix of carriers depending on the circumstances. 
  • Waived Change Cost: If the cancellation is due to unpleasant weather, flight change cost will be waived by Delta Airlines. All this indicates that, if you face bad weather conditions and wish to change your travel plan, the airline won't charge any extra fees. 
  • Updates & Communication: Whenever your flight will be cancelled by the airline due to bad weather, Delta Airlines will inform you through different methods including text messages, email, Fly Delta app, official website, etc. 

Delta Flight Canceled Due To Medical Emergency 

If you want to cancel your flight due to any medical emergency, you need to check out the eligibility criteria and available options. Therefore, pay attention to the information given below to understand the Delta flight cancellation due to medical emergency precisely. 

In case you make the cancellation due to medical issues, you will:

  • Qualify for a transferable travel credit valid for almost 5 years, or 
  • A refund will be transferred to your actual payment method. 
  • Approximately $100 will be deducted as a processing fee. 
  • Additionally, you have to share the medical documentation to begin the procedure. 

Eligibility Criteria 

A medical emergency will be considered only if:

  • You face serious health consequences, including neurological difficulties, organ damage, breathing issues, or death. 
  • Easily transferred by physical contact, including shaking hands, talking to or sitting next to someone, touching communal surfaces, and more. 

You are eligible to cancel your Delta flight ticket only when: 

  • You have or might develop a serious communicable disease, and it's recommended to avoid travelling in your medical documentation. 
  • There is a public health emergency at your destination mentioned in your itinerary. 

Procedure To Request A Refund For A Medical Emergency 

  • Foremost, you need to download the Medical Professional Attestation of Serious Communicable Disease PDF. 
  • Now, you should check the eligibility criteria on the form. 
  • Complete the form and don't forget to mark your signature on it. 
  • Once completed, submit your completed attestation form to Delta Airlines to review. 

How Can I Get Delta Compensation For Canceled Flight?

Before you request compensation from Delta Airlines, you must be aware that the Delta flight cancellation compensation completely depends on the reason for cancellation. Additionally, only the reason for cancellation will decide whether you are eligible for compensation or not. 

If you are eligible to get compensation, use the steps provided below: 

  • Open the official Delta Airlines website or mobile app. 
  • Secondly, mention your reservation confirmation code after pressing the "My Trips" section. 
  • Tap on the "Need To Cancel" option and proceed as per the provided directions on your screen. 
  • Now, find and click on the "Request A Refund" option. 
  • Further, choose the "Start Flight Cancellation" and continue using the on-screen directions. 
  • To track your request, you can use the Delta Airlines online refund status tool. 

Tip: Prior to initiating the process, you must familiarize yourself with the Delta flight cancellation compensation policy. 

Can I Cancel Delta Flights Booked With Miles?

Yes, you can cancel Delta flight booked with miles under the airline's SkyMiles flight cancellation policy. However, the refund amount and charges will depend on the fare type and time. Moreover, the airline doesn't credit a refund on your original payment method, rather you get it as a travel credit. 

Cancel Delta Flight Same-Day: Major Highlights 

Cancelling a same-day flight on Delta Airlines is permitted for major tickets. The policy lets you cancel your flights to get a full refund within 24 hours of booking for flights within the US. Moreover, after a 24-hour grace period, you are required to cancel prior to your flight time for a credit or refund based on your fare type. 

  • The cancel Delta flight same-day policy (24-hour rule) allows you to cancel the reserved flight within 24 hours of initial reservation without any charges. Additionally, provide you with a full refund. 
  • After 24 hours, you can cancel refundable tickets for a full refund, but some terms and conditions must be checked. 
  • Non-refundable tickets, especially the Basic Economy ticket can be canceled without charging anything. But, you will get a credit for your ticket value, deducting any applicable fees or difference in fare. 

How To Cancel A Flight On Delta?

Delta Airlines offers different online and offline mediums to passengers for canceling their flight ticket. You can opt for an official website, customer support number, or airport assistance to initiate and complete the process with ease. 

For a comprehensive guide, pay attention to the sections provided below: 

Mode 1: Cancel Your Delta Flight Online

If you are looking to cancel one leg of flight or a round trip via an online method, here are the steps you must follow: 

  • First, open the official Delta website. 
  • Navigate to the "My Trips" option. 
  • Next, to access your booking, enter your correct reservation confirmation number, first, and last name in the provided blanks. 
  • Then, from the list, choose the flight you want to cancel. 
  • Afterward, you have to pay the cost to cancel Delta flight.
  • Now, the airline will credit the refund to your original payment method or credit card based on your ticket type.
  • Remember that, in around 7-10 working days, the entire amount will be credited to your original payment mode.

Mode 2: Delta Flight Cancellation Via Phone

If you don't feel that online approach is convenient for you, you still have the option to use Delta phone number to cancel. Therefore, use the following directions for an effortless experience.

  • Firstly, dial +1 (800) 221-1212, the official customer support number to cancel your flight. Or, give a call to the consolidation desk at +1-800-506-7805
  • Make sure you dial the correct Delta Airlines cancel flight phone number to talk to the airline executive and get details regarding cancellation. 
  • Once your call gets connected with the representative, share your reservation confirmation number and other details. 
  • Now, explain to them regarding the flight you wish to cancel. 
  • Well, as per the policy, you are allowed to claim a refund or credit for your ticket. 
  • For restricted fares, you get the travel credit for cancellation. Moreover, you will obtain a travel voucher on your authorized email ID. 

Mode 3: Cancel Your Delta Flight At The Airport

You can cancel your flight ticket at the airport. You surely get the Delta Airlines helpdesk at the airport, you simply have to head to the helpdesk to request a flight cancellation. 

  • You have to share all your booking credentials, including your first and last name. 
  • Then, tell them which segment of the flight you want to cancel. 
  • If there is any Delta flight cancellation fee, the representative will inform you. 
  • Now, you will get a credit or refund on your original payment method. 

  Mode 4: Flight Cancellation Via Mobile App 

Delta Airlines also provides you with the option to use the mobile application to cancel a flight. So, whether you want to cancel one leg of Delta flight, you have to 

  • First, you need to open the Delta mobile app. 
  • Secondly, head to the "Menu" section provided on the top-right corner of your screen. 
  • Thirdly, click on the "My Trips" section to view your bookings. 
  • Next, you have to carefully select the flight you wish to cancel. 
  • Then, choose the "Cancel" option to cancel your flight. 
  • And you are done with the process. Make sure to pay the Delta flight cancelation fee, whenever applied. 

How Much Is The Fee To Cancel Delta Flight?

Fee to cancel Delta flight is applicable to both domestic and international flights. Additionally, the cost depends on the fare type and time period. Explore the table below for more clarity: 

Time Period Refundable Non-Refundable Basic Economy
During 24 Hours Risk-Free Cancellation Period Free Free Free
After 24 Hours Risk-Free Cancellation Period  Refundable Remaining value deducted $0-$500 the cancellation charge, issued as an eCredit. Remaining value deducted $99-$199 the cancellation charge, issued as an eCredit.
Within 24 Hours Flight Departure   Refundable Remaining value deducted $0-$500 the cancellation charge, issued as an eCredit. Remaining value deducted $99-$199 the cancellation charge, issued as an eCredit.

What Is Delta Airlines Basic Economy Cancellation Policy?

As per the cancellation policy, you can cancel your Basic Economy tickets; however, you have to pay the applied Delta flight cancellation fee Basic Economy. Additionally, the remaining amount will be reissued as eCredit for future usage. 

  • No refunds are available on Basic Economy tickets unless you make the cancellation within 24 hours of the reservation. 
  • You are not permitted to cancel your Basic Economy class ticket after 24 hours of cancellation period. For instance if you have a non-refundable ticket within North America, you can make them for free. On the other hand if the ticket originating outside the North American, the ticket value deduct a cancellation cost of around USD 0-USD 500 is refundable. 

NOTE: To get more details about the Delta Basic Economy Cancellation policy, dial +1 (800) 221-1212, the Delta Airlines cancel flight phone number directly. 

Tips To Avoid A Fee To Cancel Delta Flight 

If you really want to save some pennies even after cancelling your Delta flight, here are the tips you must follow: 

  • Select Flexible Fares: Book flexible or refundable tickets, as you may cancel them without paying any charges. 
  • Opt The 24-Hour Rule: You can cancel your Delta flight within 24 hours of reservation and get a full refund without even paying the Delta cost to cancel flight. 
  • Usage Of Medallion Benefits: It's quite beneficial if you are a Medallion member as you get more flexibility and may need to pay less or waived cancellation cost. 
  • Delta Award Ticket: According to the policy, cancelling a Delta flight booked with miles is permitted up to 10 minutes prior to the flight departure.

Understanding the Delta Airlines cancellation policy is essential. Once you get to know all the essential information about the cancellation policy in different circumstances, cancelling the flight will become easier for you. So, go through the details once to enjoy a hassle-free and effortless Delta flight cancellation experience. 

In addition to Delta cancel flight policy, Delta also has a number of other policies in place, such as Delta Name Change Policy. According to this policy, you can’t alter your entire name but a few letters are permitted. Additionally, if you wish to make changes to your name after marriage or divorce, make sure you submit all the legal documentation with the Airline.

Note: Flying Rules are intended to provide passengers with information regarding airline policies. Therefore, all information presented here is authentic and has been taken from official sources. Nonetheless, as a service provider, we strive to enhance your travel experience, regardless of the airline. Please take note that we at Flying Rules are not liable for the actions of the official airlines and will not be held accountable for them.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. Can I cancel a ticket and get a full refund within 24 hours even if it’s a non-refundable fare?

Yes, you can cancel a Delta ticket and get a full refund within 24 hours, even if you have a non-refundable ticket. However, ensure that your flight is scheduled at least seven days after the reservation.

Q2. Are Delta Basic Economy (Main Basic) tickets refundable or changeable?

Delta Basic Economy tickets are not as flexible as other types. Moreover, after 24 hours grace period, you can cancel your flight for a refund or modify these tickets. 

Q3. If I cancel after the flight departure, can I still get credit or refund?

No, you will not get a refund or credit if you cancel your Delta flight after departure.

Q4. Does Delta automatically refund me, or do I need to request it?

As per Delta’s cancellation policy, refundable tickets and flights canceled by Delta are refunded automatically, but for non-refundable fares you must submit a refund request to receive eligible credit.

Q5. What happens if my flight is delayed or cancelled by Delta — do I still get a refund?

If Delta Airlines cancels or delays your flight and no other flight options are provided within 24 hours, the airline will automatically refund you to the original payment method. 

Q6. If I cancel after the flight departure, can I still get credit or refund?

No, you will not get a refund or credit if you cancel your Delta flight after departure.

Q7. How long do I have to use eCredits after cancelling a non-refundable Delta ticket?

Once you cancel your non-refundable Delta ticket, you can use eCredit for one year from the purchase date. You can use those eCredits to reserve new Delta flight tickets. 

Q8. If I paid part of the trip with miles or a companion certificate, how does Delta cancellation work for that portion?

If you cancel a Delta trip paid with miles or companion certificate, the miles are usually redeposited to your SkyMiles account. If you used a companion certificate, it is forfeited once used, though in some cases Delta may reissue it with the original expiration date.

Leave a Reply

  1. Flying rules Logo
    Gabriel Lagadze
    July 29, 2025

    What time does the 24-hour cancellation window end for Delta flights? Is it based on booking time or midnight?

  2. Admin
    July 29, 2025

    Delta’s 24‑hour risk‑free cancellation window ends at midnight the day after purchase or at midnight the day of departure, whichever comes first. 

  3. Flying rules Logo
    Rowan
    June 23, 2025

    Canceled a Delta flight due to a personal emergency — submitted a request with supporting documents. Still waiting to hear back after a week.

  4. Admin
    June 23, 2025
    Don't worry. Delta may take a week or more to respond to refund or waiver requests, especially if submitted with documentation for a personal emergency. You can follow up through their refund request page or by calling customer service for an update.
  5. Flying rules Logo
    Thiago
    June 20, 2025

    Booked a Basic Economy fare and now need to cancel. I know it’s non-refundable, but is there any chance I can get flight credit?

  6. Admin
    June 20, 2025

    Yes, if you cancel a Delta Basic Economy fare after the 24-hour risk-free window, you can receive an eCredit for the remaining value minus a cancellation fee (typically $99–$199). The credit can be used toward a future Delta flight within one year.

Any thoughts or questions? Comment below!

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