Can Military Soldiers Change Their Flight Times for Free?

Many U.S. airlines allow military personnel to amend reservations for free.

Many U.S. airlines waive fees if military personnel have to change travel plans as a result of new or revised orders. In these cases, order papers must be presented when requesting changes to reservations.

Airlines Permitting Free Changes

Most airlines permit military personnel and accompanying passengers to make changes to reservations if military orders conflict with travel plans. In these cases, changes can be made without penalty or a refund may be issued. Airlines with these policies include American, Delta, Frontier, Hawaiian, JetBlue, Spirit, United, and US Airways. All ticket holders are eligible for free changes on Southwest.

Other Airlines

AirTran, Allegiant, and Virgin America do not generally waive change fees. Some airlines don't have explicit policies with respect to waiving change fees for military personnel, including Alaska Airlines and Continental. Airlines may still waive fees if you receive order papers that conflict with travel plans.

Considerations

If you need to modify your plans, call the airline or speak with an agent at the airport for information about accommodating changes as a result of military orders. If a military fare was purchased, changes can generally be made without penalty. As airlines may change their policies, you should confirm rules with airlines or review their contracts of carriage.

References

• American Airlines: Customer Service FAQs -- Refunds
• United Airlines: Contract of Carriage
• Spirit Airlines: Travel Agent Booking Policies and Procedures
• Frontier Airlines: Contract of Carriage
• Delta Airlines: Ticket Changes