How do I get a refund from American Airlines?

Steps: Visit the American Airlines refunds site to request a refund. To cancel, find your trip using your confirmation code or log in to your AAdvantage® account. Click 'Cancel trip' in the menu and confirm. Check email for trip cancellation information.

How long does a American Airlines refund take?

Processing time: Varies — contact provider for estimated timeline. Refund window: Within 24 hours from the time of purchase, if booked at least 2 days before departure..

What refund methods does American Airlines offer?

Original form of payment. Travel credit.

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American Airlines Refund Policy

Last verified: 2026-03-19

Official American Airlines PolicyVerified

www.aa.com/i18n/customer-service/faqs/reservations-tickets-faqs.jsp

2026-03-19

Summary

American Airlines offers refunds within Within 24 hours from the time of purchase, if booked at least 2 days before departure.. Processing time: Varies — contact provider for estimated timeline. Refund methods include original form of payment and travel credit. Cancellation within 24 hours of purchase, for tickets booked at least 2 days before departure..

Refund Window

Within 24 hours from the time of purchase, if booked at least 2 days before departure.

Processing Time

Varies — contact provider for estimated timeline

Refund Method

Original form of payment

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How to Get a Refund — Step by Step

1Visit the American Airlines refunds site to request a refund.
2To cancel, find your trip using your confirmation code or log in to your AAdvantage® account.
3Click 'Cancel trip' in the menu and confirm.
4Check email for trip cancellation information.

When You Can Get a Refund

Cancellation within 24 hours of purchase, for tickets booked at least 2 days before departure.
Refunds not allowed for non-refundable fares after 24 hours.
Taxes or fees not imposed by the airline that are specific to destinations may be refunded upon written request.
Voluntary changes to paid seats are not refundable.
Fees paid for checked bags or seats at the airport are non-refundable upon flight cancellation.

All Refund Methods

Original form of payment
Travel credit

Partial Refunds

Taxes or fees not imposed by the airline, specific to destinations.

Additional Notes

Keep the cancellation email if you’re issued a travel credit, as it contains the ticket number and original confirmation code for rebooking.
If you cancel your flight, any fees you paid for checked bags or seats at the airport are non-refundable.
Voluntary changes to paid seats are not refundable.