How much does it cost to change your ticket on Delta Airlines?

How Much Does Delta Charge to Change a Flight?

Changing travel plans can be stressful, but Delta Airlines makes it easier for passengers by offering flexible flight change options. Whether it's due to personal reasons, unexpected events, or a change in your schedule, knowing how much it will cost to change a flight date with Delta Airlines can help you plan ahead and avoid surprises. In this article, we will explore Delta Airlines flight change Policy, fees, and tips to minimize the costs associated with changing your flight date.

Delta Airlines Flight Change Policy Overview

Delta Airlines is known for its customer-friendly policies, especially when it comes to flight changes. With a range of options for domestic and international travelers, Delta has streamlined the process to make it more convenient for passengers to modify their travel plans.

As of 2021, Delta has significantly revised its flight change policies, offering more flexibility to travelers. For most domestic and international flights, Delta does not charge a change fee for standard tickets (Main Cabin and higher). However, there are still some nuances depending on the fare type, route, and timing of the change.

Delta's No-Change-Fee Policy for Most Tickets

For tickets booked in the Main Cabin, Comfort+, First Class, Delta Premium Select, and Delta One, there is no change fee for flights originating in North America to any destination worldwide. This no-change-fee policy applies to both domestic and international flights, giving travelers more flexibility and peace of mind when plans need to be altered.

However, it's important to note that while there is no fee for the Delta Airlines Flight Change, passengers may still be required to pay any difference in fare. If the new flight costs more than the original, you will need to cover the price difference. On the other hand, if the new flight is cheaper, Delta will issue an eCredit for the difference, which can be used for future bookings.

Basic Economy Tickets

For travelers who book Basic Economy tickets, Delta’s no-change-fee policy does not apply. Basic Economy fares are highly restrictive, and changing the date of a flight with this ticket type usually involves higher fees or may not be allowed at all, depending on the circumstances.

For domestic flights within the U.S., Canada, and select regions in the Caribbean and Latin America, Delta allows Basic Economy ticket holders to make changes for a fee of $99, plus any fare difference. For international flights, the change fee for Basic Economy tickets is typically $199, plus any fare difference. Keep in mind that Basic Economy tickets come with limited flexibility, so if you anticipate needing to change your flight date, it might be worth considering booking a more flexible fare.

Same-Day Flight Changes

Delta also offers the option for same-day flight changes, which allows passengers to change their flight to an earlier or later one on the same day of travel, depending on seat availability. The fee for a same-day change is $75 for most domestic flights within the U.S. However, passengers with Delta Medallion Status (Silver, Gold, Platinum, and Diamond) may be eligible for free same-day changes, depending on their status tier and ticket type.

The same-day flight change option is only available within 24 hours of the original departure time and does not apply to all routes or fare classes. It's also worth noting that you cannot change to a flight on a different day using this option.

International Flight Changes

While Delta’s no-change-fee policy applies to most international flights as well, there are still some exceptions. If you are traveling to or from destinations in Europe, Asia, Africa, or Oceania, you will generally not be charged a change fee, but any fare difference will apply.

For certain long-haul international flights or flights involving partner airlines, additional restrictions or fees may apply. It's always a good idea to check the specific terms and conditions for your fare class and route before making changes to your international booking.

How to Change a Flight Date with Delta Airlines

Changing your flight date with Delta is a straightforward process, and it can be done online through Delta’s website or mobile app. Follow these simple steps to modify your flight:

• Visit Delta’s Website or Open the App: Go to the official Delta Airlines website or open the Delta app on your mobile device.

• Log In: Enter your SkyMiles account details, or use your confirmation number to access your booking.

• Access Your Booking: Navigate to the "My Trips" section to find your upcoming flight.

• Select "Change Flight": Click on the option to change your flight, which will bring up available alternatives for the new date.

• Choose a New Flight: Select a new flight for the preferred date and time.

• Review Fare Differences and Fees: Review any potential fare differences or fees associated with your change. If no change fee applies, you will only need to pay the fare difference if applicable.

• Confirm the Change: Once you've made your selection and reviewed the details, confirm the change to complete the process.

Tips to Minimize Flight Change Fees with Delta

Here are some practical tips to help minimize or avoid fees when making a Delta Airlines Flight Change:

• Book Flexible Fares: Whenever possible, book fares in the Main Cabin or higher, as these fare classes offer more flexibility and no-change-fee policies.

• Avoid Basic Economy: If your travel plans are uncertain, avoid booking Basic Economy tickets, as they are more restrictive and subject to change fees.

• Monitor Flight Prices: If you're considering changing your flight, monitor flight prices regularly to find a cheaper alternative and avoid paying a significant fare difference.

• Use eCredits: If your new flight is cheaper than your original one, Delta will issue an eCredit for the difference. You can use this credit for future bookings, helping you save on future travel.

• Take Advantage of Delta’s 24-Hour Risk-Free Cancellation: Delta allows you to cancel or change your booking within 24 hours of purchase without any penalties. If you need to make a change shortly after booking, use this window to do so for free.

Conclusion

Delta Airlines offers a flexible and transparent flight change policy, with no change fees for most fare types. While Basic Economy fares are more restrictive, passengers traveling in the Main Cabin or higher can change their flight date without incurring additional fees, apart from potential fare differences. By understanding Delta’s policies and following these tips, you can make changes to your flight date with ease and avoid unnecessary costs.