American Airlines tightens refund policy for last-minute bookings

American Airlines has modified its refund policy to limit the standard 24-hour money-back guarantee on flights booked within a week of departure, the carrier announced recently. Under the revised terms, passengers who reserve tickets for travel within seven days will no longer automatically qualify for full refunds within 24 hours of booking.

The adjustment represents a shift in the airline's customer service approach and could impact business travellers and those booking last-minute flights. American Airlines previously offered a blanket 24-hour refund window across all bookings, providing customers with a brief window to reconsider their purchases without penalty.

The airline did not specify alternative refund options for last-minute bookings, though customers may still be eligible for travel credits or other forms of compensation depending on fare type and booking conditions. The policy aligns with broader industry trends as major carriers reassess their refund structures in response to evolving market conditions and customer booking patterns.

Travellers planning to book American Airlines flights are advised to review the updated terms and conditions on the carrier's website. The change underscores the importance of understanding individual airline policies before completing ticket purchases, particularly for time-sensitive travel.