Emergency Flight Changes
When emergencies strike, airlines often provide compassionate assistance for flight changes. Learn about emergency policies, required documentation, and how to get help when you need it most.
Understanding Emergency Flight Changes
Airlines recognize that life sometimes presents urgent situations requiring immediate travel changes. Most carriers offer compassionate policies for medical emergencies, deaths in the family, and other qualifying circumstances.
While policies vary by airline, most will waive change fees and offer flexible rebooking options when proper documentation is provided within specified timeframes.
Qualifying Emergency Situations
Medical Emergency
Often waived
Serious illness or injury requiring immediate travel
Death in Family
Often waived
Bereavement travel for immediate family members
Natural Disaster
Usually waived
Weather or disaster affecting travel plans
Military Orders
Often waived
Active duty military personnel with orders
Required Documentation
Medical Emergency
Valid within Within 7 days
Required Documents:
Death in Family
Valid within Within 30 days
Required Documents:
Natural Disaster
Valid within Current event
Required Documents:
Military Orders
Valid within As specified in orders
Required Documents:
How to Request Emergency Changes
Contact Airline Immediately
Call special assistance or customer service line
Explain Your Situation
Provide details about the emergency
Gather Documentation
Collect required proof of emergency
Submit Documentation
Send proof to airline within required timeframe
Airline Emergency Change Policies
| Airline | Medical Emergency | Bereavement | Documentation | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| American Airlines | Fees waived with documentation | Special bereavement fares available | Required within 7 days | Special assistance line |
| Delta Air Lines | Fees waived with documentation | Bereavement fares available | Required within 7 days | Special assistance line |
| United Airlines | Fees waived with documentation | Bereavement fares available | Required within 7 days | Special assistance line |
| Southwest Airlines | Case-by-case basis | No special bereavement fares | Required within 7 days | Customer service |
| JetBlue Airways | Fees waived with documentation | Bereavement fares available | Required within 7 days | Special assistance line |
Pro Tips for Emergency Changes
Contact the airline as soon as possible - don't wait
Be prepared to explain your situation clearly and honestly
Ask about bereavement fares if dealing with a death
Keep copies of all documentation you submit
Follow up if you don't receive confirmation within 24 hours
Consider travel insurance for future emergency protection
Ask about flexible rebooking options for ongoing situations
Be patient but persistent if initial requests are denied
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifies as a medical emergency for flight changes?
Medical emergencies typically include serious illness, injury, or hospitalization requiring immediate travel. Airlines usually require documentation from a medical professional and may have specific criteria for what constitutes an emergency.
How long do I have to submit documentation?
Most airlines require documentation to be submitted within 7 days of the emergency change request. Some may allow longer periods for bereavement situations. Check with your specific airline for their policy.
Are bereavement fares still available?
Many airlines still offer bereavement fares for immediate family members, though policies vary. These fares are typically discounted and may have flexible change policies. Contact the airline directly for current offerings.
What if my emergency change request is denied?
If your request is denied, ask to speak with a supervisor or special assistance representative. You can also appeal the decision by providing additional documentation or explaining your situation more clearly.