Yes, you can cancel United flights and in some cases get a refund, depending on the type of ticket you purchased and the specific circumstances of your cancellation. United Airlines offers a range of fare options, and the refundability of your ticket largely depends on which fare type you selected when booking your flight. For example, if you purchased a fully refundable ticket, you can cancel your reservation at any time before departure and receive a full refund to your original form of payment without any penalties or fees. These refundable fares generally cost more upfront, but they provide greater flexibility for travelers who may need to change their plans. On the other hand, if you bought a non-refundable ticket, you typically will not be eligible for a cash refund after cancellation. However, United may issue a future flight credit or travel certificate that you can use toward a future booking, provided that you cancel your flight before it departs.

There are some exceptions where even non-refundable United tickets may qualify for a refund. For instance, if United cancels your flight or makes a significant schedule change that affects your itinerary, you may be entitled to a full refund under the airline’s policies and federal regulations. Similarly, if you experience a major delay caused by United that prevents you from reaching your destination in a reasonable time, you can request a refund. Additionally, United offers a 24-hour flexible booking policy that allows all customers to cancel or change a reservation within 24 hours of purchase without incurring any fees, as long as the booking was made at least seven days before the scheduled departure date. This policy applies to both refundable and non-refundable tickets and is designed to give customers peace of mind when making travel arrangements.

For travelers holding basic economy tickets, it’s important to note that these fares are generally the most restrictive. Basic economy tickets are not eligible for changes or refunds beyond the 24-hour flexible cancellation window. However, certain circumstances, such as military orders or the death of a passenger or immediate family member, may allow for an exception and a refund upon submission of valid documentation. If you booked using MileagePlus miles, the refundability depends on the award ticket type and when you cancel. In most cases, miles will be redeposited into your account, though a service fee may apply unless you have elite status in the MileagePlus program.

In summary, whether you can cancel United flights and get a refund depends on your fare type, the timing of your cancellation, and the reason for canceling. Refundable tickets offer the most flexibility, while non-refundable tickets may still provide options like flight credits or refunds in special cases. It is always advisable to review United Airlines’ cancellation and refund policies carefully at the time of booking and before canceling a reservation to understand your rights and available options.