Delta Airlines provides a structured and flexible cancellation policy that accommodates different fare types and booking conditions. The foundation of this policy is the 24-hour risk-free cancellation rule, which applies to all bookings made directly through Delta’s official website, mobile app, ticket counters, or customer service. Passengers who cancel a ticket within 24 hours of purchase are entitled to a full refund, provided the scheduled departure is at least seven days away. This rule includes all fare types, including non-refundable Basic Economy fares. The refund is processed automatically to the original payment method, typically within seven business days for credit or debit card purchases and up to twenty days for other payment types.

After the 24-hour window closes, Delta’s cancellation terms depend on the fare category. Fully refundable tickets can be canceled at any time before departure with no penalty, and the full ticket amount is returned to the passenger’s original form of payment. For non-refundable fares, such as Main Cabin or Classic fares, cancellations incur a cancellation fee, often ranging from 99 to 199 dollars depending on the route and fare class. The remaining balance is returned as an eCredit, which can be used for future Delta bookings and is usually valid for one year from the original date of issuance.

Basic Economy tickets are the most restrictive. Outside the 24-hour grace period, they are generally non-changeable and non-refundable unless a travel waiver is issued due to extraordinary events such as natural disasters or public health emergencies. However, Delta has occasionally relaxed these restrictions under certain conditions. If Delta cancels a flight or makes significant changes to the itinerary—such as schedule changes exceeding three hours for domestic flights or six hours for international flights—passengers are eligible for a full refund regardless of the fare type. Refunds also apply when there is a change of origin or destination airport, a downgrade in cabin class, or a significant routing change.

Same-day flight changes are available for many fare types within 24 hours of scheduled departure. Eligibility depends on fare rules and Medallion status in Delta’s SkyMiles loyalty program. In medical situations or emergencies, such as illness or death in the immediate family, Delta may grant a refund or eCredit upon submission of official documentation.

Travelers who booked through third-party platforms or agencies must cancel through those sources, as Delta does not manage third-party ticket changes directly. Group bookings, Delta Vacations packages, and SkyMiles award travel have specific cancellation policies that differ from standard individual fare rules.

Passengers are advised to cancel as early as possible and keep a record of all cancellation confirmations, refund requests, and payment receipts. These records can help in case of refund delays or disputes. Delta’s cancellation policy, while dependent on fare type and booking channel, offers a balance of flexibility and protection, particularly through its risk-free 24-hour window, refund options for refundable fares, and credits for non-refundable ticket cancellations.