Yes – you can cancel your flight with American Airlines after booking. The rules vary depending on the fare type, destination, and how close it is to departure. Most domestic and short-haul fares allow cancellation up to 24 hours after booking with a full refund, thanks to the FAA’s 24-hour rule. For tickets outside that window, refunds and credits depend on whether your fare was refundable or non-refundable.
Refundable tickets can be canceled at any time before departure with a full refund. Non-refundable tickets typically yield an electronic travel credit (minus change fees), applicable for future travel within a year. Changes or cancellations can be done online, via the app, or by contacting American Airlines.
If you miss a flight due to your own fault, you’ll usually face change fees and the fare difference under the “flat tire rule.” You must contact the airline immediately—either online or via phone—explain your circumstances, and request reinstatement or rebooking on a later flight. Be prepared to pay fees unless you have elite status or purchased a flexible fare.
For missed flights due to extraordinary circumstances (e.g., serious illness or airport delays), you may be eligible for a fee waiver or free rebooking. You’ll need to provide documentation like a doctor’s note. Always act quickly to improve chances of accommodation.
Yes—fees depend on your fare type and when you cancel or change. As of current policy, American Airlines has waived change fees for most domestic and short-haul international flights, regardless of fare type. However, non-refundable fares will still require payment of any fare difference if the new flight is more expensive.
For premium cabins (Premium Economy, Business, First) and refundable fares, changes and cancellations are generally allowed at no charge, and refundable tickets qualify for a cash refund. Unaccompanied minors, award tickets, and basic economy fares have stricter rules or no changes allowed.
Yes—you can hold a fare for 24 hours on bookings made at least 2 days before departure without charge. This is in compliance with the U.S. Department of Transportation’s 24-hour risk-free cancellation rule. Not all itineraries or third-party bookings are eligible—one-way basic economy and award bookings are typically excluded.
To hold a fare, choose the “Hold fare” option during checkout on aa.com or through their call center. After you place a hold, you’ll have a guaranteed price for 24 hours, giving you time to confirm travel details or payment.
You have a few options for booking business class:
Cash booking: Visit aa.com, select “Business” fare class when searching flights, and proceed with the booking.
Using AAdvantage miles: Log into your AAdvantage account, search flights with miles, and choose a business-class award seat. Taxes and fees still apply.
Upgrades: Purchase an upgrade option during or after booking (if available), using Miles, Upgrade Certificates (for elites), or paid upgrade offers.
Call center booking: If your flight involves complex routing, international segments, or award booking with mixed cabin classes, calling the reservation center can be helpful to secure the best routing and availability.
Emily R. (⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐): “Booked business class easily online. Staff was helpful at check‑in.”
Carlos M. (⭐⭐⭐⭐): “Missed my flight once—reebooked with no trouble after a quick call.”
Nina P. (⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐): “Canceled a refundable ticket and got my full refund in 3 days.”