When travel plans change unexpectedly, knowing how to request a refund is crucial. If you’ve booked a flight with American Airlines and need to cancel, understanding their refund policy can help you get your money back—or at least a credit for future travel. At Tour N Travel Pro, we strive to provide travelers with the latest and most accurate information. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of requesting a refund under the American Airlines refund policy and what to expect.
Understanding the American Airlines Refund Policy
Before you request a refund, it’s essential to determine if your ticket qualifies. American Airlines has different rules for refundable and non-refundable tickets.
Refundable vs. Non-Refundable Tickets
- Refundable Tickets: If you purchased a refundable fare, you can cancel your booking and request a full refund anytime before departure.
- Non-Refundable Tickets: These tickets generally don’t qualify for a refund unless specific circumstances apply, such as flight cancellations by the airline, schedule changes, or a valid emergency.
24-Hour Cancellation Rule
Under the American Airlines refund policy, all passengers can cancel their booking within 24 hours of purchase and receive a full refund, as long as the booking was made at least two days before departure. This rule applies to all ticket types, including non-refundable fares.
Step-by-Step Guide to Requesting a Refund
If you believe you qualify for a refund, follow these steps to submit your request:
1. Check Your Ticket Type
Log in to your American Airlines account or check your email for your ticket confirmation. Your ticket details should indicate whether your fare is refundable or non-refundable.
2. Cancel Your Flight
Before requesting a refund, you must first cancel your flight. You can do this online:
- Go to
- Click on “Manage Trips”
- Enter your booking details (last name and confirmation number)
- Select your trip and choose “Cancel”
Alternatively, you can contact American Airlines customer service for assistance.
3. Submit a Refund Request Online
Once your flight is canceled, you can request a refund by:
- Visiting the American Airlines refund request page
- Entering your ticket number and passenger details
- Selecting the reason for your refund request
- Submitting the request
After submission, you should receive a confirmation email from American Airlines.
4. Contact American Airlines Customer Service
If you are unable to submit your refund request online or have special circumstances (such as a medical emergency or bereavement), you can call American Airlines Customer Service at +1-844-402-8105.
When Can You Expect Your Refund?
The American Airlines refund policy states that:
- Refunds for credit/debit card purchases typically take 7 business days to process.
- Refunds for cash or check purchases may take up to 20 business days.
- If your refund request is denied, you may receive a travel credit instead.
You can check the status of your refund by visiting the American Airlines refund status page and entering your ticket details.
Special Cases Where Refunds May Apply
1. Flight Cancellations by American Airlines
If American Airlines cancels your flight, you are entitled to a full refund, regardless of ticket type. You can also choose to rebook on another flight at no extra cost.
2. Significant Schedule Changes
If American Airlines changes your flight schedule significantly (e.g., a major time change or connection change), you may qualify for a refund.
3. Military Deployment or Medical Emergencies
If you or an immediate family member experience an emergency, you can provide documentation (such as military orders or medical records) to request a refund.
4. Refunds for Unused Services
If you paid for additional services (such as baggage fees or seat selection) and did not use them, you might be eligible for a refund. You can submit a separate request for these charges on the American Airlines website.
What If Your Refund Is Denied?
If your refund request is denied, you still have options:
- Use a Travel Credit: American Airlines may issue a trip credit instead of a refund, which you can use for future flights.
- Rebook Your Flight: You may be able to change your travel dates instead of canceling your ticket.
- File a Complaint: If you believe your refund should be approved, you can contact American Airlines customer service or file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT).Related Post : Hawaiian Airlines flight change policy
Final Thoughts
Navigating the American Airlines refund policy doesn’t have to be complicated. By understanding the rules and following the right steps, you can increase your chances of getting a refund or a travel credit. At Tour N Travel Pro, we are committed to helping travelers like you make informed decisions. If you need further assistance with your airline bookings or refunds, feel free to reach out to us!
