American Airlines Change Fees: Do They Apply To Basic Economy Tickets?
Changing flight plans can be a hassle, especially when you have to pay extra fees to do so. If you booked a Basic Economy fare on American Airlines, you may be wondering whether change fees apply if you need to switch flights.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll provide a detailed overview of American’s Basic Economy rules, change fee policies, and tips for avoiding charges when modifying Basic Economy itineraries.
If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer: American Airlines does charge change fees for Basic Economy tickets, with fees typically starting at $200 per ticket. However, you may avoid change fees if you opt to cancel the ticket entirely and book a new flight.
An Overview of American Airlines Basic Economy Fares
American Airlines offers Basic Economy fares as a budget-friendly option for travelers. These fares come with certain restrictions and limitations compared to regular economy tickets. Understanding the details of Basic Economy fares can help you plan your trip and avoid any surprises.
What is Basic Economy?
Basic Economy is a type of fare offered by American Airlines that provides a lower-cost option for travelers. It is designed for passengers who are looking for the most affordable way to get to their destination without any additional frills or amenities.
Basic Economy fares are typically priced lower than regular economy tickets, allowing passengers to save money on their airfare.
Restrictions on Basic Economy Tickets
While Basic Economy fares offer cost savings, it’s important to be aware of the restrictions that come with these tickets. Passengers with Basic Economy tickets may have limited flexibility and may not have access to certain benefits. Here are some common restrictions:
- No seat selection: Passengers with Basic Economy tickets may not be able to select their seats in advance. Instead, seats are assigned at check-in, which means you may not be able to sit with your travel companions.
- No changes or refunds: Basic Economy tickets are usually non-refundable and cannot be changed or canceled without incurring a fee.
- Carry-on restrictions: American Airlines’ Basic Economy fares may have restrictions on carry-on baggage. Typically, passengers are only allowed to bring one personal item that fits under the seat in front of them. However, checked baggage is still allowed for an additional fee.
- Boarding group limitations: Passengers with Basic Economy tickets are typically assigned to the last boarding group, which means they may have limited overhead bin space and may need to check their carry-on bags at the gate.
Why Basic Economy Fares Are Cheaper
The main reason why Basic Economy fares are cheaper is because they come with fewer benefits and amenities compared to regular economy tickets. By offering a no-frills experience, American Airlines can offer lower prices to passengers who prioritize affordability over additional perks.
Basic Economy fares are a great option for travelers who are comfortable with the restrictions and are looking to save money on their airfare.
For more information on American Airlines’ Basic Economy fares and the specific restrictions that may apply, you can visit the official American Airlines website at www.aa.com.
American Airlines’ Change Fee Policy for Basic Economy
When it comes to Basic Economy tickets on American Airlines, it’s important to understand their change fee policy. While Basic Economy fares are often cheaper than other ticket options, they do come with certain restrictions and fees that passengers should be aware of.
Change Fees for Domestic Flights
For domestic flights within the United States, American Airlines does impose change fees on Basic Economy tickets. If you need to make a change to your travel plans, such as modifying your flight dates or times, you can expect to pay a fee.
The exact amount of the fee may vary depending on factors such as the length of your flight and how far in advance you make the change.
Change Fees for International Flights
For international flights, American Airlines also applies change fees to Basic Economy tickets. If you need to make changes to your international travel plans, such as changing your destination or altering your return date, you will be subject to a change fee.
Just like with domestic flights, the specific amount of the fee may vary based on various factors.
Other Charges for Basic Economy Changes
In addition to change fees, there may be other charges associated with making changes to a Basic Economy ticket. For example, if you want to upgrade to a higher fare class or select a different seat, you may have to pay an additional fee.
It’s important to carefully review the terms and conditions of your ticket to understand all the potential charges that may apply.
Change Fee Exceptions
While change fees generally apply to Basic Economy tickets on American Airlines, there are some exceptions to be aware of. For example, if your flight is canceled by the airline, you may be able to make changes to your ticket without incurring any fees.
Additionally, some elite status members or credit card holders may have certain benefits that waive or reduce change fees.
It’s always recommended to check American Airlines’ official website or contact their customer service for the most up-to-date information on change fees and policies.
Strategies to Avoid or Minimize Change Fees
Book a More Flexible Main Cabin Ticket
One of the best ways to avoid change fees with American Airlines is to book a more flexible main cabin ticket. Basic economy tickets typically have strict change policies and come with hefty change fees.
However, by upgrading to a main cabin ticket, you’ll have more flexibility to make changes to your flight without incurring additional charges. While main cabin tickets may be slightly more expensive, the added flexibility can save you money in the long run if you need to make any changes to your travel plans.
Cancel and Rebook vs Changing Flight
Another strategy to consider is canceling and rebooking your flight instead of simply changing it. In some cases, the change fee may be higher than the cost of canceling your original flight and booking a new one.
By canceling and rebooking, you may be able to avoid or minimize change fees altogether. However, it’s important to check American Airlines’ cancellation and rebooking policies before making any decisions, as fees and restrictions may apply.
Use an American Airlines Travel Voucher
If you find yourself needing to change your flight but want to avoid or minimize change fees, consider using an American Airlines travel voucher. Travel vouchers are often given as compensation for flight delays or cancellations, and they can be used as a form of payment for future flights.
By using a travel voucher to book a new flight, you can avoid paying change fees out of pocket. Keep in mind that travel vouchers usually have expiration dates, so be sure to use them before they expire.
Change Your Flight Early
Changing your flight as early as possible can also help you avoid or minimize change fees. Many airlines, including American Airlines, have different change fee policies based on how far in advance you make the change.
By making the change well in advance of your departure date, you may be able to avoid or reduce the change fee. It’s always a good idea to check American Airlines’ specific policies and guidelines regarding changes to your flight.
Consider Trip Insurance
Lastly, if you frequently travel and want to protect yourself against unexpected changes in your plans, consider purchasing trip insurance. Trip insurance can provide coverage for a variety of situations, including trip cancellations, delays, and changes.
By having travel insurance, you may be able to avoid or minimize change fees if you need to make any adjustments to your flight. Be sure to carefully review the terms and coverage of the insurance policy to understand what is included and what is not.
By following these strategies, you can avoid or minimize change fees when flying with American Airlines. Remember to always check the specific policies and guidelines of the airline, as they may vary depending on the type of ticket and other factors.
Planning ahead and staying informed can help you save money and have a smoother travel experience.
Other Airlines’ Change Fee Policies for Basic Economy
Delta Air Lines
When it comes to Basic Economy tickets, Delta Air Lines has its own set of change fee policies. Unlike American Airlines, Delta does allow changes to Basic Economy tickets, but at a cost. Passengers who wish to make changes to their Basic Economy ticket will be charged a change fee, which can vary depending on the specific ticket and route.
It is important to note that Basic Economy tickets on Delta are generally non-refundable, so passengers should carefully consider their travel plans before purchasing.
United Airlines
Similarly, United Airlines also has specific change fee policies for Basic Economy tickets. Passengers who have purchased Basic Economy tickets on United Airlines are not allowed to make any changes to their ticket, even for a fee.
This means that if your travel plans change, you may be out of luck if you have a Basic Economy ticket with United Airlines. It is always recommended to carefully review the terms and conditions of your ticket before making a purchase.
JetBlue
JetBlue, on the other hand, takes a different approach to Basic Economy tickets. While they do offer Basic Economy fares, they do not charge any change fees for these tickets. This means that passengers who have purchased a Basic Economy ticket with JetBlue have the flexibility to make changes to their travel plans without incurring any additional fees.
However, it is important to note that any difference in fare between the original ticket and the new ticket will still apply.
Frontier Airlines
Frontier Airlines is known for its low-cost fares, and this extends to their Basic Economy tickets as well. Similar to JetBlue, Frontier Airlines does not charge change fees for Basic Economy tickets. Passengers with Basic Economy tickets on Frontier Airlines can make changes to their travel plans without incurring any additional fees.
However, it is important to note that any difference in fare between the original ticket and the new ticket will still apply.
Spirit Airlines
Spirit Airlines, another low-cost carrier, also has its own policies for Basic Economy tickets. Passengers who have purchased Basic Economy tickets on Spirit Airlines are allowed to make changes to their tickets, but at a cost.
Change fees for Basic Economy tickets on Spirit Airlines can vary depending on the specific ticket and route. It is important to review the terms and conditions of your ticket before making any changes.
For more information on the specific change fee policies of these airlines, it is recommended to visit their official websites:
Conclusion
Basic Economy fares can offer great upfront savings, but little flexibility. American Airlines, like most other major U.S. airlines, charges change fees of $200 or more for Basic Economy tickets. You can avoid change fees by rebooking an entirely new ticket instead of changing an existing reservation.
For added protection, look into Main Cabin fares or travel insurance when booking American Airlines flights.
