• 04 Mar, 2024
  • Travel tips
  • Travomint

Can an airline change your flight date?

Suddenly, your friend's flight date has been changed; information will be at the airport; for this reason, you are confused and search about can an airline change your flight date;so, yes, the airlines can change your flight date, though there are some things that you should bear out it in mind readily.

While you book a flight with a specific date and time in mind, airlines generally don't guarantee those details in their contracts of carriage. It means they reserve the right to adjust schedules for various reasons.

The airlines must inform you of any changes to your flight, usually through email or phone.

Not all changes are significant. Minor adjustments like a few minutes difference in departure time are generally accepted.

However, if the change significantly disrupts your travel plans (e.g., a different date, longer layover, different route), you have options that the airline can offer to you.

Rebooking- The airline should offer you alternative flights on their network close to your original booking. You can pick a flight that operates for you at no additional expense.

Cancellation and refund- If no suitable alternative flight exists, you can cancel your ticket and obtain full reimbursement for the unaccustomed amount of your trip.

What are the airline's date change restrictions?

Airlines' date change restrictions vary depending on the airline fare type you purchased and in certain situations. To understand this, you may consider the points below.

  • Non-refundable tickets are generally the cheapest but have strict change and cancellation policies. You may be charged a hefty fee, or even the entire cost of the ticket, to change your flight date.
  • Refundable tickets are more expensive but offer more flexibility. You may be able to change your flight date for a fee or even receive a full refund if you cancel your trip altogether.
  • Flexible tickets are the most expensive but offer the most flexibility. You may change your flight date without any fees or restrictions.
  • Many airlines offer a 24-hour grace period after you purchase your ticket, during which you can change your flight date for free. 
  • Some airlines offer lower change fees if you change your flight date. You may be charged a lower fee if you change your flight date 60 days or more in advance, compared to changing it closer to your departure date.
  • Some airlines may waive change fees if you need to change your flight date due to extenuating circumstances, like a medical emergency or a family death.

Does a flight rescheduled by the airlines possible?

Airlines can reschedule a flight, which can happen for various reasons, which are stated below, consider it readily.

  • Bad weather like storms, fog, or heavy snowfall can force airlines to delay or reschedule flights for safety reasons.
  • If there are technical problems with the aircraft, the airline may need to reschedule the flight to secure the protection of travelers and crew.
  • Air traffic control issues, such as staffing shortages or airspace restrictions, can lead to flight delays and rescheduling.
  • Sometimes, airlines may need to reschedule flights due to operational issues like crew availability or changes in demand.

How do you reschedule a flight 

Rescheduling a flight can be done in a few ways, and the specific steps may vary on how you booked your ticket, you must consider the general points.

Check the airline's website or app: Most airlines allow you to manage booking online, having rescheduling flights. Look for the My Trips option section, continue to pursue all the prompts to find your specific flight, and request a reschedule. 

Contact the airlines directly: If you are unable to reschedule online, you can call the airline's customer service department, and share the required details to them to reschedule the flight.