Changing American Airlines Reservations: Fees, Rules and Name Transfers
American Airlines generally permits travelers to move a reservation to a different flight before the scheduled departure, though the cost and conditions vary based on the fare type purchased, the reason for the adjustment, whether alternate flights exist and the traveler's own circumstances. One key point: the carrier normally does not let a ticket be reassigned to a different individual, a policy reinforced by heightened security measures. In most situations, any modification to a ticket carries a charge.
By Kai Wood4 steps
For most travelers, American Airlines permits moving a reservation from one flight to another as long as it happens before departure. The applicable restrictions and charges hinge on several factors: the fare class that was purchased, why the change is being made, whether other flights are available, and sometimes the passenger's particular situation. Importantly, American Airlines generally does not permit transferring a ticket into someone else's name, a stance that has become more pronounced as security measures have tightened. Typically, any kind of ticket modification comes with a fee.
Step 1
In most cases, American Airlines will not let a ticket issued in one person's name be reassigned to a different individual. If you cancel the ticket instead, you will be charged roughly $150, with the exact amount depending on the original fare class, and in return you receive a credit. That credit can then be applied toward a new ticket issued in the new passenger's name. To do this, contact the airline at 918-254-3777 or visit refunds.aa.com and follow the provided instructions to cancel the original ticket and book the replacement. Booking the new ticket by phone can add another $20 or more in fees. Tickets purchased in lower-priced fare classes usually carry a charge when changed or canceled.
Step 2
Full-fare tickets — often described as unrestricted or refundable — are the simplest to modify. Before your flight departs, call 918-254-3777 or go to refunds.aa.com to make the adjustment. No fee applies, and you are eligible for a full refund if the ticket you bought was refundable or unrestricted. Business travelers, particularly those booking at the last minute, are the ones who usually purchase these tickets.
Step 3
Restricted or nonrefundable tickets present more obstacles when you want to transfer, change or cancel them. Although these fares tend to be less expensive upfront, the change fees can be substantial. You need to call 918-254-3777 or visit refunds.aa.com to modify your ticket. For domestic tickets, expect a fee around $150 to change or cancel; for international tickets, the change cost can reach $250, depending on the fare class.
Step 4
When a medical or family emergency, or another special circumstance, forces you to change, cancel or transfer your ticket, American Airlines may decide to waive the change fee. If your reason falls into a covered category, your best option is to call the airline and explain the situation. The airline typically asks for documentation supporting the reason for the change — for example, a death certificate or a doctor's note stating you are too ill to travel. When severe weather such as a hurricane occurs, American Airlines generally allows you to alter or cancel your plans without charge. Call the airline at 918-254-3777 or go to refunds.aa.com.
