Does the U.S. 24-hour booking rule cover my purchase?

For a qualifying booking made directly with an airline at least seven days before departure, the airline must provide either a free hold or penalty-free cancellation for at least twenty-four hours. Third-party purchases are not covered by that airline requirement.

What this answer depends on

  • The airline chooses which of the two models it offers.
  • A third party may voluntarily provide its own cancellation terms.
  • The airline may voluntarily permit a change.

Important exceptions

  • The airline is not required to offer both options.
  • Do not promise a third-party cancellation right without that seller's separately verified terms.

What to do next

  1. Check the booking channel

    Confirm whether the purchase was made directly with the airline or through another seller.

  2. Check the departure timing

    Compare the booking date and time with the scheduled departure date and time.

  3. Save your records

    Keep the booking confirmation, payment record and any hold or cancellation confirmation.

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