What happens when I cancel a non-refundable flight?

Many airlines allow you to cancel a non-refundable reservation, but you need to act according to the terms and conditions. When you book a non-refundable flight, there are high chances that you might not get any refund. 

If your itinerary is uncertain and you need to refund your canceled flight, this article can help you out efficiently. So, it is advisable to keep some tips ready before you cancel a non refundable flight if you wish to experience no loss!

When can an airline provide a refund?

Any airline decides the refund amount by recalculating your ticket as per the fare and charge rules applied during booking. To know if you are likely to get a refund or not, take a look at the given points:

• If you are booked with a traditional flight or have chosen a low-cost airline, then there are chances that you might get a refund.
• You can easily cancel a non refundable flight by following some easy steps, but there are no specific ways of getting a refund on that reservation.
• If the airline cancels your non-refundable flight from its end because of some unavoidable circumstances, then you can grab a refund on the canceled flight.
• Some airlines will provide a reschedule option rather than a refund if the airline cancels the flight from its end.
• You can receive a refund on a non-refundable flight if you are canceling the flight because of the death of a fellow traveler or a family member. In such a scenario, the airline might require some documentation to support why you are canceling the flight.

How can I cancel a non-refundable flight?

You must keep some professional guidance in mind to cancel a non-refundable flight if you want to receive a refund too-

Stay calm while you talk to the airline:

• Getting a refund on a non-refundable flight is quite tricky, but there might be some chances that you can coax it out of the airline.
• You can contact the customer service and make them understand politely about your reason for canceling the flight.

Understand the 24-hour rule:

• When you have booked a domestic non-refundable flight, some airlines allow you to cancel your flight for free, but if you do it within 24 hours from the initial booking.
• Some airlines even offer you travel points if you are canceling your flight within the 24-hours golden rule.

Approach the travel agent:

• If you booked a ticket from a travel consolidator, talk to them about the chances of getting a refund on your flight.
• Also, some travel agents have inside contacts, and they might be able to provide a refund on your non-refundable flight.

Many airlines allow you to calculate your refund amount online, and you can also ask the airline’s customer service to give you details about the refund charges. So, if you need to cancel a non refundable flight, do it as soon as possible; the longer you are late, the higher the chances of not getting a refund will be!