What is the 24-hour rule for United Airlines?

 

The 24-hour rule for United Airlines is a policy that allows passengers to cancel or change a ticket within 24 hours of booking without paying a change fee. This rule is designed to give travelers flexibility in case they booked a flight by mistake, want to rebook, or find a better option.

Here are the key details:

✅ How the 24-Hour Rule Works

1. Eligibility:

   • Applies to tickets purchased directly from United Airlines (website, mobile app, or customer service).

   • Tickets purchased through third-party websites or travel agencies may not qualify.

2. Time Frame:

   • You have 24 hours from the time of booking to cancel or make changes.

   • The 24-hour period is counted from the moment United confirms your ticket.

3. Refunds:

   • If you cancel within 24 hours, you can get a full refund to your original form of payment, even for non-refundable fares.

   • If you choose to rebook a new flight, there will be no change fee, though you may need to pay any fare difference.

4. Exceptions:

   • Basic Economy tickets may have restrictions, depending on the route.

   • The rule does not apply to changes after the 24-hour window—after that, normal change fees and fare differences apply according to United’s ticket policies.

Tips for Using the 24-Hour Rule

• Double-check all names and details: This is a good opportunity to catch any typos before the ticket becomes final.

• Act quickly: Use the 24-hour window as soon as possible if you need changes.

• Use United’s website or app: Online cancellations are faster and immediately processed.

In short, the 24-hour rule gives travelers peace of mind, allowing free cancellations or changes shortly after booking. After 24 hours, the regular United Airlines name change policy and change fees apply.