Spirit Airlines is one of the most popular low-cost airlines in the United States, known for offering affordable flights across various domestic and international destinations. However, travel plans can change unexpectedly, and understanding the Spirit Airlines cancellation policy is crucial to ensure smooth travel experiences when unforeseen circumstances arise. In this guide, we will take a detailed look at Spirit Airlines’ cancellation policies, including how to cancel a flight, refund eligibility, and the associated fees.
What is the Spirit Airlines Cancellation Policy?
Spirit Airlines provides flexible options for travelers who need to cancel their flights. However, since Spirit is a low-cost carrier, they have specific guidelines and charges that differ from traditional airlines. Here are the key points you should know:
- 24-Hour Cancellation Rule: Spirit Airlines offers a risk-free cancellation window of 24 hours. If you book a flight and need to cancel within 24 hours of purchase, and your flight is scheduled to depart at least 7 days later, you can cancel your reservation without incurring any fees.
- Standard Cancellation Policy: After the 24-hour risk-free period, Spirit Airlines applies cancellation fees. The fee amount varies based on the type of fare and when you cancel.
How to Cancel a Spirit Airlines Flight?
Spirit Airlines makes the process of cancelling a flight relatively easy. You can cancel your flight online, via their app, or through their customer service. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Online Cancellation:
- Visit the official Spirit Airlines website.
- Navigate to the “My Trips” section.
- Enter your reservation details (confirmation code and last name).
- Select the flight you wish to cancel and follow the prompts.
- Cancel via the Spirit Airlines App:
- Open the Spirit Airlines app on your mobile device.
- Go to “My Trips” and log in using your reservation number.
- Choose the flight to cancel and complete the steps.
- Contact Customer Service:
If you face issues online, you can call Spirit Airlines’ customer service for assistance in canceling your flight. Keep in mind that additional service charges may apply if you cancel over the phone.
Spirit Airlines Cancellation Fees
While Spirit Airlines offers low-cost tickets, they also impose fees for cancellations made after the risk-free period. These fees can range from $39 to $119, depending on factors such as the timing of your cancellation and your specific fare type.
- Cancel 60+ Days Before Departure: No cancellation fee.
- Cancel 7-59 Days Before Departure: $69 cancellation fee.
- Cancel 0-6 Days Before Departure: $119 cancellation fee.
Refund Eligibility and Credit Vouchers
Spirit Airlines operates mainly with non-refundable tickets. This means that if you cancel your flight, you likely won’t receive a refund in cash. However, Spirit offers the option of credit vouchers that can be used for future travel.
- Refundable Tickets: If you purchased a refundable ticket, you can request a refund to your original payment method.
- Non-Refundable Tickets: Passengers will typically receive a Future Travel Credit voucher that must be used within a certain period (usually 12 months from issuance).
Spirit Airlines Flight Flex Option
If you anticipate the possibility of changing or canceling your flight, Spirit Airlines offers an add-on service called Flight Flex. For a small fee, you can purchase Flight Flex during booking, which allows you to make changes to your itinerary once, without paying change fees. It does not apply to complete cancellations but can be helpful if you only need to adjust your travel dates.
How to Use Spirit Airlines Future Travel Credits?
When you cancel a Spirit Airlines flight, you may receive a Future Travel Credit. Here’s how you can use it:
- Log into your Spirit Airlines account when booking your next flight.
- During the payment process, you’ll see an option to apply a Future Travel Credit.
- The credit can only be used for flights and cannot be applied to additional services like baggage fees or seat selection.
Spirit Airlines No-Show Policy
If you fail to show up for your flight and have not canceled it in advance, Spirit Airlines will label it as a “No-Show.” In this case, you will forfeit the fare and will not receive a refund or credit for future travel. To avoid this, make sure to cancel your flight ahead of time if you cannot travel.
How to Avoid Spirit Airlines Cancellation Fees?
While cancellations are sometimes unavoidable, there are ways to minimize or avoid fees:
- Cancel Within 24 Hours: Utilize Spirit’s 24-hour risk-free cancellation window to avoid fees entirely.
- Purchase Travel Insurance: Travel insurance can help cover cancellation fees in case of unforeseen events such as illness or emergencies.
- Use Flight Flex: By adding the Flight Flex option during booking, you can make changes to your flight once without paying a penalty.
- Cancel 60 Days in Advance: If you foresee the need to cancel, do so at least 60 days before your flight to avoid fees.
Changes vs. Cancellations on Spirit Airlines
If you don’t wish to cancel your flight but need to make changes to it, Spirit Airlines offers options for modifying your booking. Changing a flight is often cheaper than canceling, but the airline does charge a fee unless you have Flight Flex.
COVID-19 and Spirit Airlines Cancellation Policy
Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, Spirit Airlines has adjusted some of its cancellation policies temporarily. They have offered more flexibility for travelers who need to change or cancel flights due to COVID-19-related disruptions. For the most current policies, it is recommended to check Spirit Airlines’ website directly.
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Final Thoughts on Spirit Airlines Cancellation Policy
The Spirit Airlines cancellation policy offers flexibility but comes with fees and limitations. By understanding their rules and using options like the 24-hour cancellation window, Flight Flex, and Future Travel Credits, you can navigate cancellations with minimal financial impact. Always keep in mind the timing of your cancellation and whether you’re eligible for refunds or credits, as this can vary depending on the fare type and timing.
Whether you’re traveling for business or leisure, it’s always a good idea to familiarize yourself with airline cancellation policies before booking to avoid unexpected costs later.