Spirit Airlines offers budget-friendly travel options, but it’s crucial to understand their cancellation policy to avoid unnecessary fees or misunderstandings. Whether you’re a first-time traveler or a frequent flyer, this guide will provide clarity on Spirit Airlines cancellation policy, including refunds, cancellation fees, and the conditions under which you can modify or cancel your flight.
Spirit Airlines has established itself as a low-cost carrier, offering competitive fares by stripping away extras many other airlines include. However, when it comes to cancellations and changes, Spirit has specific policies and fees that passengers must understand to avoid unnecessary surprises. This comprehensive guide provides all the essential information about Spirit Airlines’ cancellation policy, including how to cancel, refund eligibility, fees, and tips to minimize costs.
Spirit Airlines Refund Policy
Are Spirit Airlines Tickets Refundable?
- Most Spirit Airlines fares are non-refundable unless the cancellation occurs within the 24-hour risk-free window.
- Refunds are generally provided in the form of travel credits instead of cash refunds for cancellations made beyond this period.
- If Spirit cancels a flight due to operational reasons, passengers are entitled to a full refund.
Travel Credits
- Credits must be redeemed within 90 days from the issue date, though the travel itself can occur later.
- These credits can only be used for booking Spirit Airlines flights and related services, such as baggage fees or seat upgrades.
Key Aspects of Spirit Airlines Cancellation Policy
1. 24-Hour Risk-Free Cancellation
Spirit Airlines allows customers to cancel or modify a reservation without incurring any fees if the cancellation is made within 24 hours of booking and the flight is scheduled to depart 7 or more days in the future. This is in compliance with the U.S. Department of Transportation’s regulations.
- Applicable to: Both standard and award bookings.
- Fee: $0 within 24 hours of booking.
- Refund Type: Full refund to the original form of payment.
2. Cancellation Fees After 24 Hours
After the initial 24-hour window, Spirit Airlines charges fees based on the type of fare and timing of the cancellation.
- Cancellation Made 60+ Days Before Departure: No fee.
- Cancellation Made 7-59 Days Before Departure: Fee of $49.
- Cancellation Less Than 7 Days Before Departure: Fee of $79.
3. Refund Options
Spirit Airlines offers only non-refundable fares, but customers can receive a credit for future travel if they cancel a flight outside the 24-hour grace period. The travel credit must be used within 90 days from the issue date. Keep in mind that the credit is applicable only toward Spirit Airlines flights or related services.
4. Modifying a Reservation
- Spirit Airlines allows changes to bookings, including flight dates or destinations.
- Modification Fee: $49 when changes are made 7-59 days before departure; $79 for changes made within 7 days of departure.
- Any fare difference must be paid by the customer when modifying the booking.
5. Same-Day Cancellations and Missed Flights
- If a passenger misses a flight, Spirit Airlines treats it as a no-show, forfeiting the fare.
- However, Spirit offers a Flight Flex option, allowing passengers to change their flight date once without fees, provided changes are made at least 24 hours before departure.
Exceptions to Cancellation Fees
- Military Duty: Active duty military members who need to cancel due to deployment or official orders can receive a full refund without fees.
- Flight Delays or Cancellations by Spirit Airlines: In the event Spirit cancels or significantly delays a flight, passengers are eligible for a full refund or rebooking on another flight without additional charges.
- Travel Insurance: Passengers with travel insurance may be able to claim a refund or reimbursement if they need to cancel due to covered reasons like illness or emergencies.
How to Cancel or Modify a Spirit Airlines Booking?
You can cancel or modify your booking through the following channels:
- Website: Log in to your account on Spirit’s website, navigate to “My Trips,” and follow the prompts to modify or cancel your flight.
- Mobile App: Similar steps apply if using Spirit’s mobile app for cancellations.
- Customer Service: Call Spirit Airlines’ customer service, but be aware that phone cancellations may incur an additional service fee.
Important Things to Remember
- Spirit Saver$ Club Members: Members of Spirit’s subscription program may receive discounted modification and cancellation fees.
- Non-Refundable Extras: Add-ons like seat selection and baggage fees are generally non-refundable, even if you cancel the flight.
- Flight Credit Limitations: The credit issued must be redeemed within 90 days, but the travel date can be set beyond this period.
Tips for Avoiding Cancellation Fees with Spirit Airlines
- Book Carefully: Ensure your travel dates are firm before booking to avoid modification fees.
- Flight Flex: Add the Flight Flex option during booking if you anticipate changes in your plans.
- Travel Insurance: Consider purchasing travel insurance for additional coverage in case of unforeseen events.
- Monitor Flights: Stay updated on Spirit Airlines’ flight schedules to be informed of any delays or cancellations.
For more blogs: Indiantribune
Conclusion
Spirit Airlines’ cancellation policy emphasizes low costs while offering limited flexibility. Travelers should be mindful of the 24-hour cancellation window to avoid fees and consider purchasing the Flight Flex option if there is a chance of changes to their travel plans. Understanding Spirit Airlines’ cancellation policy can help passengers make informed decisions, avoid extra fees, and manage travel changes effectively.
