American Airlines offers a flexible cancellation policy tailored to meet the diverse needs of travelers. One of the most convenient features of their policy is the 24-hour risk-free cancellation option. If you book a flight and cancel within 24 hours, and your departure is at least two days away, you are eligible for a full refund regardless of the fare type. This applies to both refundable and non-refundable tickets, allowing passengers some peace of mind right after booking.

For refundable tickets, passengers enjoy the greatest flexibility. These tickets, which are commonly found in fare classes like Main Cabin Flexible, Premium Economy, Business, and First Class, can be canceled at any time before the flight. A full refund is issued back to the original form of payment, and in most cases, processed within seven business days if a credit card was used.

If you purchase a non-refundable ticket, American Airlines typically does not provide a cash refund. However, you can still cancel your booking and receive the value of your ticket as a travel credit. This credit can be used for future travel and is valid for one year from the original purchase date. If the airline cancels or significantly changes your flight, even a non-refundable ticket becomes eligible for a full refund.

Basic Economy fares come with stricter limitations. These are usually non-changeable and non-refundable. Still, under certain conditions—such as if you are an AAdvantage member and the flight is domestic—you can cancel for a $99 fee and receive travel credit for future use.

There are also special exceptions to the standard rules. In cases such as a death in the family, serious illness, or military orders, American Airlines may grant refunds on non-refundable tickets. Proper documentation is required for these exceptions, and each case is reviewed individually.

To cancel a flight, travelers can go to the "Manage Trips" section on the American Airlines website or mobile app. If the ticket was purchased through a travel agent or third-party site, it's best to contact them directly, as their cancellation procedures may differ.

Overall, American Airlines’ cancellation policy is designed to provide flexibility while maintaining fare rules. Knowing your fare type and understanding your options helps ensure smoother travel planning and better handling of unexpected changes.