Key points at a glance
- No change fees on many U.S. domestic/main-cabin fares; fare difference may apply.
- Basic Economy is often restrictive for changes; cancellation for credit may be the only option.
- Schedule changes by AA can unlock free changes or refunds in some cases.
- Trip credits usually carry an expiration—rebook before it lapses.
Fare rules & what they mean
American Airlines (AA) applies different flexibility based on the fare type and route. Main Cabin and premium cabins on most U.S. routes typically avoid change fees, but fare differences still apply. Basic Economy remains limited for changes. International tickets and special fares (consolidator, bulk, corporate, award) can have unique restrictions.
We’re independent. Air To Connect LLC is not affiliated with American Airlines. This guide is for traveler education and support.
How to change your AA ticket (step-by-step)
- Find your AA record locator (PNR) in your email or AA app.
- Review the fare type (Basic Economy vs Main Cabin vs Premium) and route.
- Choose new dates/flights and check availability and pricing.
- Pay any fare difference; confirm the reissue.
- Save the new confirmation and set travel reminders.
Cancelling & credits/refunds
Most nonrefundable AA tickets turn into a trip credit when cancelled, usable toward future travel. Refundable fares can typically go back to the original payment method. Schedule changes, medical issues, or significant disruptions may create exceptions. If your itinerary includes partner airlines, the rules might differ—ask us to review before you cancel.
Fees, fare differences & money-saving tips
- Fare difference: If the new fare is higher, you pay the increase; if lower, credits may apply depending on rules.
- Same-day confirmed changes: Often allowed on select routes for a fee or elite benefit.
- Split PNRs: If only one traveler needs changes, split the reservation first.
- Mixed carriers: Reissues can be tricky—let us handle repricing across partners.
Related resources
American Airlines FAQs
- Can I change an American Airlines Basic Economy ticket?
- Basic Economy changes are often limited. Consider canceling for a credit if eligible, or call +1-888-816-7948.
- Are change fees waived on AA?
- Many U.S. domestic/main-cabin fares have no change fee; fare differences may apply. Details vary by route.
- How do I cancel and get a credit?
- Cancel in your AA account/app. Most nonrefundable fares become trip credit. We can verify by phone.
- Refund vs credit?
- Refundable fares usually return to your original payment; nonrefundable typically get credit.
- Partner flights on my itinerary—what now?
- Partner rules can change the process. We handle mixed carriers for you.
- Do I pay fare difference?
- Yes if new fare is higher; lower fares may produce credits depending on rules.
- AA schedule changed my flight—am I eligible for a free change?
- Possibly, depending on the time shift and options; ask us to review your case.
- When do credits expire?
- Varies by issue date; rebook before expiry. We can check and rebook.
- Change only one traveler?
- Split the PNR first; then modify the traveler who needs changes.
- Award ticket changes?
- Rules depend on the program and award availability; repricing may apply.
- Change origin/destination?
- Usually possible with a full reprice; call us for a live quote.
- Booked via third party?
- You may need to work through the seller; we’ll guide the process.
- Same-day confirmed changes?
- Available on many routes for a fee/elite perk, subject to seats.
- Change just one leg?
- Often yes, but it may trigger a full reprice.
- What do I need when calling?
- Record locator, traveler names, travel dates, and payment method.
- Is support 24/7?
- Yes—call +1-888-816-7948 anytime.
Disclaimer: Air To Connect LLC is an independent support platform and is not affiliated with American Airlines. For official policies visit the airline’s website.