24-hour flight cancellation rule
Booked too fast? In the US, you can often cancel a fresh booking for a full refund. Check if your ticket qualifies.
24-hour rule checker
Can you still cancel for free?
Does the flight depart from or arrive in the United States?
Did you book directly with the airline (not a third-party site)?
Was it booked less than 24 hours ago?
Is departure at least 7 days after you booked?
Answer all 4 questions to see your result.
Heads up: GhettoAirline is a comparison site. We don't sell tickets, take payments, issue refunds or hold reservations. Bookings, changes, cancellations, refunds and claims are handled directly by the airline or travel provider you booked with.
What is the 24-hour rule?
The US Department of Transportation requires airlines selling tickets for US flights to either hold a reservation at the quoted fare for 24 hours without payment, or allow cancellation within 24 hours for a full refund — as long as the booking is made at least 7 days before departure. Most large US airlines offer the free cancellation option.
Tips
- Book directly with the airline if you want the clearest 24-hour protection.
- Cancel online and save the confirmation email.
- The refund should go back to your original payment method — contact the airline if it doesn't show up.
Flight already delayed or cancelled by the airline? Try our delay compensation checker or read flight refund rights.