One of the best known names in budget travel is Spirit Airlines, an airline which has become a go-to option for travelers searching to save on air travel. But one thing that could surprise travelers — including Booking.com users — is the airline’s cancellation policy. If your plans have changed, if you have a family emergency, or you simply want to reschedule your trip, learning about Spirit Airlines cancellation policy can help save you valuable time — and money.
In this article, we outline the details behind KK, so you know what to expect before booking or canceling a flight.
1. 24-Hour Free Cancellation Policy
Spirit Airlines follows the U.S. Department of Transportation’s 24-hour cancellation rule. If you book a flight directly with Spirit (either online or over the phone), and your departure is at least 7 days away, you’ll be able to cancel that reservation any time within 24 hours of booking and receive a full refund. This rule applies to all ticket types and is the most lenient element of the policy.
2. Cancellation After 24 Hours
If you cancel your flight past the first 24-hour period, cancellation fees might be applicable, depending on when you cancel:
60+ days before departure: Free cancellation, no fees.
31–59 days before departure: $69 cancellation fee.
7–30 days before departure: $99 cancellation fee.
0–6 days before departure: $119 cancellation fee.
These charges are per passenger, and deducted from your total fare. The balance is paid in the form of a Reservation Credit, which can be used for Spirit Airlines travel in the future.
3. Reservation Credit: What Is It?
If you cancel a Spirit flight but aren’t eligible for a refund, Spirit will credit you whatever is left as a Reservation Credit. This credit:
Is valid for 12 months from the date it was issued.
May only be applied to flights or services provided by Spirit Airlines.
Is not transferable and must be flown by original passenger.
Just remember to monitor your credit because any unused funds will expire upon expiration.
4. How to Cancel a Spirit Flight
If you need to cancel a Spirit Airlines flight, you can do it easily in a couple of different ways:
Online: Sign in to your account on Spirit. Go to “My Trips” on the site, select your booking and follow the prompts to cancel.
Mobile App: Cancellation with the Spirit Airlines app is quick and simple.
Customer Service: Call Spirit’s customer service, but keep in mind that cancellation fees differ if you do it over the phone, and…
5. What If Spirit Cancels Your Flight?
If Spirit Airlines cancels your flight for weather, mechanical or other operational reasons, you are entitled to:
A complete refund to your original payment method, or
A complimentary rebooking on the next available Spirit flight.
The usual choice Spirit offers to passengers is the decision to rebook or be refunded. If your flight’s delayed or canceled significantly and subsequent available flights don’t work for you, asking for a refund is acceptable.
6. Refund Eligibility
Spirit Airlines follows a no-refund policy for most tickets (after the 24-hour window) unless:
Spirit cancels the flight.
Death or grave illness (documentation needed).
You’ve bought a refundable fare (rare and fairly expensive).
For maximum flexibility, Spirit has a product called Flight Flex (available when booking) that lets you change your reservation with one free modification — it won’t, however, waive cancellation fees.
7. Travel Insurance & Protection
Travelers seeking additional peace of mind have the option to buy travel insurance from third-party providers at checkout on Spirit’s website. This can include cancellation fees in the case of emergencies, so it’s a good one to consider if your plans aren’t certain.
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