Understanding Spirit Airlines Cancellation Policy: A Comprehensive Guide

When it comes to air travel, plans can change unexpectedly. Understanding the cancellation policies of the airline you’re flying with can save you both time and money. If you’re traveling with Spirit Airlines, here’s everything you need to know about their cancellation policy, including the 24-hour cancellation window, fees, refund policies, steps to cancel your flight, and whether you get your money back if you cancel a flight.

spirit airlines cancellation policy

Spirit Airlines 24 Hours Cancellation Policy

Spirit Airlines offers a 24-hour cancellation window that allows passengers to cancel their flights without any fees. This Spirit Airlines cancellation policy applies to all bookings made at least seven days before the scheduled departure. If you cancel your flight within 24 hours of booking, you will receive a full refund, including any optional services and fees. This 24-hour grace period is a great option for travelers who may have booked impulsively or need to make quick changes to their plans.

Benefits of the 24-Hour Cancellation Window

The 24-hour cancellation policy provides peace of mind for travelers. Here are some benefits:

  • Flexibility: Allows you to make changes or cancellations without financial penalties.
  • Full Refund: You receive a full refund to your original form of payment, including any additional services purchased.
  • Stress-Free Booking: Encourages you to book flights with confidence, knowing you have a 24-hour window to make any changes.

How to Cancel a Spirit Airlines Flight?

Cancelling a flight with Spirit Airlines is a straightforward process. Here’s how you can do it:

  1. Visit Spirit Airlines’ Website: Go to the Spirit Airlines website and log in to your account using your email and password.
  2. Manage Travel: Click on the "My Trips" tab to view your upcoming reservations.
  3. Select Your Flight: Choose the flight you wish to cancel and click on the "Cancel Reservation" button.
  4. Confirm Cancellation: Follow the prompts to confirm the cancellation. You will be informed of any applicable cancellation fees and the amount of credit you will receive.
  5. Receive Confirmation: After completing the process, you will receive a confirmation email with details of your cancellation and any travel credit issued.

Additional Methods to Cancel

  • Customer Service: You can also cancel your flight by contacting Spirit Airlines’ customer service +1-855-200-0640. Be prepared to provide your booking details and any necessary identification.
  • Airport Counters: For last-minute cancellations, you can visit Spirit Airlines’ counters at the airport, although this may incur higher fees.

Does Spirit Give Your Money Back if You Cancel a Flight?

The answer to this question largely depends on when you cancel your flight.

Within 24 Hours of Booking

If you cancel within the 24-hour cancellation window, you will receive a full refund to your original form of payment. This includes the cost of the ticket and any additional services or fees you may have paid for.

After 24 Hours

If you cancel after the 24-hour window, you will not get your money back in cash. Instead, you will receive a travel credit for the remaining balance after the cancellation fee is deducted. This credit can be used for future Spirit Airlines flights or services.

Special Circumstances

In some cases, Spirit Airlines may provide a refund outside the normal policy under specific circumstances, such as:

  • Military Deployment: If you are in the military and receive orders for deployment, you may be eligible for a refund.
  • Death or Serious Illness: In the event of the death or serious illness of a passenger or immediate family member, Spirit may consider refund requests. Documentation may be required.

Fees for Spirit Airlines Cancellation:

If you cancel your Spirit Airlines flight after the 24-hour window, you will be subject to cancellation fees. These fees can vary depending on when you cancel your flight:

  • 60 days or more before departure: $39
  • 7 to 59 days before departure: $69
  • Less than 7 days before departure: $99

It’s important to note that these fees apply per passenger, so if you’re traveling with a group, the total cost of cancellation can add up quickly. Additionally, these fees are non-refundable and will be deducted from the amount paid for your ticket.

Factors Influencing Cancellation Fees

  • Timing: The closer you are to the departure date, the higher the cancellation fee.
  • Booking Type: Different fare types and promotions may have specific cancellation policies and fees.
  • Membership Status: Spirit’s $9 Fare Club members might have different or reduced fees.

Spirit Airlines Refund Policy:

Spirit Airlines is a low-cost carrier, and their refund policies are designed to minimize their costs. Generally, if you cancel your flight after the 24-hour window, you will not receive a cash refund. Instead, Spirit Airlines provides a credit for future travel, which you can use within a specific period, usually 12 months from the date of issuance. This credit can be applied to any Spirit Airlines flight or service.

Understanding Travel Credits

  • Validity: Travel credits are typically valid for 12 months from the date of issuance.
  • Usage: Credits can be used for booking future flights or purchasing additional services (like baggage fees or seat selection).
  • Non-Transferable: Credits are usually non-transferable and can only be used by the original ticket holder.

How to Request a Refund or Credit

  1. Online Request: Use the Spirit Airlines website to request a refund or credit.
  2. Customer Service: Contact Spirit Airlines’ customer service for assistance.
  3. Documentation: Be prepared to provide necessary documentation, such as medical records or military orders, if applicable.

Conclusion

Navigating Spirit Airlines’ cancellation policy can be a bit tricky, but understanding the key aspects can help you make informed decisions. Remember, if you need to cancel your flight, doing so within 24 hours of booking can save you from any fees and guarantee a full refund. For cancellations after this window, be prepared to pay a fee and receive a travel credit instead of a cash refund. By following the steps outlined above, you can efficiently manage your travel plans and make the best use of Spirit Airlines’ services.

Understanding these policies can help you avoid unexpected charges and make your travel experience smoother and more enjoyable. Whether you’re booking a new flight or dealing with changes to your plans, being informed about Spirit Airlines’ cancellation policies is essential for a stress-free journey.