Flight Date Change Guide
Need to change your flight date? Learn about airline policies, fees, and the best strategies for making date changes while minimizing costs.
Understanding Flight Date Changes
Changing your flight date is one of the most common modifications travelers need to make. Whether due to schedule changes, emergencies, or simply changing plans, understanding your options and associated costs is crucial.
Date change policies vary significantly by airline and fare type. While some changes are free or low-cost, others can be expensive, especially when combined with fare differences.
Types of Date Changes
Same-Day Change
Usually free or low cost
Change to a different flight on the same day
Advance Change
$200+ depending on fare
Change to a different date before departure
Emergency Change
Often waived with documentation
Change due to medical or family emergency
How Fare Type Affects Date Changes
Basic Economy
$200+
Economy
$200+
Premium Economy
$200+
Business/First
$200+
How to Change Your Flight Date
Check Your Fare Rules
Review your ticket type and change policies
Find Alternative Dates
Search for available flights on your preferred dates
Calculate Total Cost
Include change fees and any fare differences
Make the Change
Contact airline or use online tools to change
Airline Date Change Policies
| Airline | Change Fee | Time Limit | Fare Difference | Methods |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| American Airlines | $200+ | Before departure | Yes | Phone, online, airport |
| Delta Air Lines | $200+ | Before departure | Yes | Phone, online, airport |
| United Airlines | $200+ | Before departure | Yes | Phone, online, airport |
| Southwest Airlines | No change fees | Before departure | Yes | Phone, online, airport |
| JetBlue Airways | $200+ | Before departure | Yes | Phone, online, airport |
Pro Tips for Date Changes
Book flexible fares if you anticipate needing changes
Check fare differences before committing to a change
Consider travel insurance for unexpected changes
Act quickly - prices and availability change frequently
Keep documentation of all change requests and confirmations
Ask about waivers during special circumstances
Compare total cost of changing vs. booking new ticket
Check if your credit card offers travel protection
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to change a flight date?
Costs vary by airline and fare type. Most airlines charge $200+ for date changes, plus any fare difference. Southwest Airlines doesn't charge change fees, while basic economy fares often have the most restrictions.
Can I change my flight date for free?
Free changes are possible with flexible fares, same-day changes, or during special circumstances like weather delays. Some airlines also offer free changes within 24 hours of booking.
How far in advance can I change my flight date?
Most airlines allow changes up to the departure time, though some have earlier cutoffs. Check your specific airline's policy, as some require changes 24-48 hours before departure.
What if the new date costs more than my original ticket?
You'll need to pay the fare difference in addition to any change fees. If the new fare is cheaper, you may receive a credit for the difference, depending on the airline's policy.