What happens if you don't cancel the flight?

Consequences of Failing to Cancel a Flight

When you make a flight reservation but ultimately fail to cancel it, you may face significant financial penalties. Airlines typically impose strict policies regarding missed flights, resulting in a loss of ticket value and additional charges.

Ticket Price Forfeiture

In most cases, failing to cancel a flight will result in the forfeiture of your ticket price. This means that you will not receive any refund for the unused flight. This penalty applies to both refundable and non-refundable tickets.

Booking and Change Fees

In addition to losing the ticket price, airlines may also impose booking and change fees on passengers who fail to cancel their flights. These fees vary depending on the airline and the specific fare you purchased. However, they can be quite substantial, adding to the overall cost of the missed flight.

Missed Flight Impact on Future Travel

In some cases, missing a flight may negatively impact your future travel plans. Airlines may flag your account for frequent no-shows, which could lead to restrictions on future bookings or increased fees. Additionally, some loyalty programs may revoke or reduce your benefits if you accumulate a certain number of missed or late cancellations.

Alternatives to Cancellation

If you are unable to make your flight, it is important to cancel it as soon as possible to avoid these penalties. If you have a refundable ticket, you may be able to cancel it without penalty and receive a full refund. If you have a non-refundable ticket, you may be able to change your flight to a different date or time, although this may also involve additional fees.

In some cases, you may be able to obtain a refund or credit for a missed flight if you have a valid reason, such as a medical emergency or a family emergency. However, these requests are typically subject to the airline’s discretion.

Conclusion

Failure to cancel a flight can result in serious financial consequences, including the loss of ticket price, booking and change fees, and potential impact on future travel. Therefore, it is crucial to understand the airline’s cancellation policies and to cancel your flight promptly if you are unable to make it.