Tweet
The 24-hour rule is one of the most passenger-friendly policies offered by United Airlines, giving travelers extra flexibility and peace of mind when booking flights. Whether you’re planning a trip months in advance or making last-minute arrangements, this policy can help you adjust or cancel your booking without penalty. If you need assistance during this process, you can always call +1-866-231-4032 for support.
Understanding United’s 24-Hour Flexible Booking Policy
United Airlines follows the U.S. Department of Transportation’s (DOT) 24-hour cancellation regulation, which requires airlines to provide customers with a risk-free period after purchasing tickets. Under this rule, United allows passengers to cancel their flight within 24 hours of purchase and receive a full refund, as long as the booking was made at least seven days before the scheduled departure.
This policy is especially useful if you need extra time to confirm travel plans, compare flight options, or coordinate with other travelers — all without the worry of losing money.
Key Features of the 24-Hour Rule
1. Full Refund Within 24 Hours
If you change your mind within 24 hours of booking your ticket, United will refund the full ticket price to your original payment method. No cancellation fees or penalties apply. 2. Applies to Most Ticket Types
The 24-hour rule applies to:
Even fare types that are normally non-refundable — such as Basic Economy — qualify for a full refund within this window. 3. Must Be Booked Through United
To qualify for the 24-hour risk-free cancellation:
If you're not sure whether your reservation qualifies, call +1-866-231-4032 for clarification.
24-Hour Flexible Booking vs. United’s “FareLock”
United also offers a paid service called FareLock, allowing you to hold a reservation for 3–7 days for a small fee. This is different from the free 24-hour policy, which allows you to book now and cancel later, rather than holding the price without paying.
If you’re deciding between using FareLock or relying on the 24-hour booking window, an agent can help walk you through the pros and cons at +1-866-231-4032.
How to Cancel Within 24 Hours
Canceling under the 24-hour rule is simple:
Your refund will be processed automatically, and most customers receive confirmation right away.
When to Use the 24-Hour Rule
This rule is especially helpful when:
Need Assistance?
If you’re unsure whether your booking qualifies or need help canceling or rebooking, call United’s support team at +1-866-231-4032 for immediate assistance.
Understanding United’s 24-Hour Flexible Booking Policy
United Airlines follows the U.S. Department of Transportation’s (DOT) 24-hour cancellation regulation, which requires airlines to provide customers with a risk-free period after purchasing tickets. Under this rule, United allows passengers to cancel their flight within 24 hours of purchase and receive a full refund, as long as the booking was made at least seven days before the scheduled departure.
This policy is especially useful if you need extra time to confirm travel plans, compare flight options, or coordinate with other travelers — all without the worry of losing money.
Key Features of the 24-Hour Rule
1. Full Refund Within 24 Hours
If you change your mind within 24 hours of booking your ticket, United will refund the full ticket price to your original payment method. No cancellation fees or penalties apply. 2. Applies to Most Ticket Types
The 24-hour rule applies to:
- Basic Economy tickets
- Standard Economy
- Premium cabins
- Award tickets booked with miles
Even fare types that are normally non-refundable — such as Basic Economy — qualify for a full refund within this window. 3. Must Be Booked Through United
To qualify for the 24-hour risk-free cancellation:
- The ticket must be purchased either on United’s website, through the United mobile app, or via United reservations.
- Tickets purchased through third-party travel agents may not qualify under United’s direct policy, though they may have their own 24-hour rules.
If you're not sure whether your reservation qualifies, call +1-866-231-4032 for clarification.
24-Hour Flexible Booking vs. United’s “FareLock”
United also offers a paid service called FareLock, allowing you to hold a reservation for 3–7 days for a small fee. This is different from the free 24-hour policy, which allows you to book now and cancel later, rather than holding the price without paying.
If you’re deciding between using FareLock or relying on the 24-hour booking window, an agent can help walk you through the pros and cons at +1-866-231-4032.
How to Cancel Within 24 Hours
Canceling under the 24-hour rule is simple:
- Go to the United website or app.
- Log in and open your trip under “My Trips.”
- Select Cancel flight and confirm your choice.
Your refund will be processed automatically, and most customers receive confirmation right away.
When to Use the 24-Hour Rule
This rule is especially helpful when:
- You find a better fare shortly after booking
- You made a mistake with your travel dates or passenger details
- Your plans suddenly change
- You want to lock in a fare while confirming other arrangements
Need Assistance?
If you’re unsure whether your booking qualifies or need help canceling or rebooking, call United’s support team at +1-866-231-4032 for immediate assistance.
