Delta Air Lines·SkyTeam
Delta Cancellation & Refund Policy
Delta Cancellation & Refund Policy — Summary
Delta refund rules: refundable vs non-refundable fares, travel credit validity, and when US DOT rules entitle you to cash back instead of a voucher.
Key Travel Facts & Insights
- Refundable fares: Refundable Main Cabin, First and Delta One fares refund to the original form of payment with no penalty at any time before departure..
- Non-refundable fares: Non-refundable tickets cancelled before departure become an eCredit for the value paid, less any applicable penalty.
- How long credits last: Delta eCredits are generally valid for one year from the original ticket issue date, not from the date of cancellation — a distinction that catches people out..
- Your rights when the airline cancels: If Delta cancels your flight or makes a significant schedule change and you decline the rebooking, you are entitled to a cash refund to your original form of payment under US DOT rules — not a voucher.
Refundable fares
Refundable Main Cabin, First and Delta One fares refund to the original form of payment with no penalty at any time before departure.
Non-refundable fares
Non-refundable tickets cancelled before departure become an eCredit for the value paid, less any applicable penalty. Basic Economy is not eligible outside the 24-hour window.
How long credits last
Delta eCredits are generally valid for one year from the original ticket issue date, not from the date of cancellation — a distinction that catches people out.
Your rights when the airline cancels
If Delta cancels your flight or makes a significant schedule change and you decline the rebooking, you are entitled to a cash refund to your original form of payment under US DOT rules — not a voucher. Delta must issue it automatically and without you having to ask.
Cancelling before departure
Failing to cancel before departure forfeits the entire ticket value, including on fares that would otherwise have generated an eCredit. Cancel before departure even if you cannot travel.
How to request a refund
Most changes, cancellations, seat swaps, same-day standby and bag tracking are faster in the Fly Delta app than on the phone. Start there before you queue.
If the airline does not respond
Formal complaints go through the Comment/Complaint form on delta.com. If unresolved, US travellers can file with the DOT Aviation Consumer Protection Division, which obliges the carrier to respond.
Delta cancellations & refunds — common questions
Can I get a refund from Delta?
Refundable Main Cabin, First and Delta One fares refund to the original form of payment with no penalty at any time before departure. Non-refundable tickets cancelled before departure become an eCredit for the value paid, less any applicable penalty. Basic Economy is not eligible outside the 24-hour window.
How long is a Delta travel credit valid?
Delta eCredits are generally valid for one year from the original ticket issue date, not from the date of cancellation — a distinction that catches people out.
Do I get cash back if Delta cancels my flight?
If Delta cancels your flight or makes a significant schedule change and you decline the rebooking, you are entitled to a cash refund to your original form of payment under US DOT rules — not a voucher. Delta must issue it automatically and without you having to ask.
More Delta help
Booking Delta? Talk to a US travel consultant.
Fare rules, baggage allowances and change policies differ by route and fare brand. Our consultants confirm the exact terms attached to your itinerary before you pay — and handle the change or refund if plans move.