Delta Air Lines Flight Change PolicyExplained (2026 Update)Travel plans don’t always go as expected. Whether it’s a schedule conflict, weather disruption,or a change in personal plans, knowing the Delta Airlines Flight Change Policy can save youtime and money. In this 2026 update, we break down the rules, fees, and step-by-step processto help you modify your booking with confidence.Does Delta Charge Change Fees?Good news for most travelers: Delta Air Lines has eliminated change fees on many ticket typesfor flights originating in the United States and Canada.No Change Fees Apply To:● Main Cabin tickets
● Delta Comfort+● First Class● Premium Select● Delta OneThis applies to both domestic and most international routes. However, fare differences may stillapply. If your new flight costs more, you’ll need to pay the difference. If it costs less, you mayreceive an eCredit for future travel.What About Basic Economy?Basic Economy tickets come with stricter rules. In most cases:● Changes are either not allowed or subject to a fee.● You may have to cancel and rebook.● Refunds are typically not permitted unless within the 24-hour risk-free cancellationwindow.Before booking Basic Economy, consider whether flexibility is important for your trip.24-Hour Risk-Free CancellationDelta offers a 24-hour risk-free cancellation policy. If you book directly through Delta and cancelwithin 24 hours of purchase, you can receive:● A full refund to your original payment method● No change or cancellation feesThis applies to most ticket types, including Basic Economy, as long as the booking was made atleast seven days before departure.How to Change a Delta FlightChanging your Delta flight is simple and can be done online or through customer service.
Step 1: Log InVisit the Delta website or mobile app and access your trip using your confirmation number.Step 2: Select “Modify Flight”Choose the flight you want to change and review alternative options.Step 3: Compare PricesIf the new flight costs more, you’ll pay the difference. If it costs less, you’ll receive an eCredit.Step 4: Confirm ChangesReview your updated itinerary and finalize the change.Same-Day Flight ChangesDelta offers same-day confirmed changes for eligible tickets. This allows you to switch to anearlier or later flight on the same day of travel.● Available within 24 hours of departure● Must be on the same route● May require a same-day change fee (waived for certain Medallion members)Standby options may also be available, depending on your fare type and elite status.Award Ticket ChangesIf you booked your flight using SkyMiles, you can generally change or cancel award ticketswithout a fee (excluding Basic Economy award tickets). Any difference in mileage must be paidif the new flight requires more miles.This flexibility makes SkyMiles redemptions a valuable option for travelers with uncertain plans.Special SituationsWeather or Operational Disruptions
If Delta cancels or significantly changes your flight due to weather or operational issues, youmay be eligible for:● Complimentary rebooking● Refund options● Travel waiversAlways check for active travel advisories on Delta’s website during major weather events.International TravelPolicies for international flights are generally similar, but fare rules may vary based on departurecountry. Always review the specific ticket conditions before making changes.Tips to Avoid Extra Costs● Book Main Cabin or higher for flexibility.● Compare prices before confirming changes.● Use eCredits before expiration (typically valid for one year).● Monitor flight prices after booking you may rebook and receive an eCredit if the faredrops.Final ThoughtsThe Delta Airlines Flight Change Policy in 2026 continues to offer flexibility for most travelers,especially those booking Main Cabin or higher fares. While Basic Economy remains restrictive,most other ticket types allow changes without traditional change fees—though fare differencesstill apply.