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Understanding Southwest Airlines’ Cancellation Policy

I need to cancel a flight with Southwest Airlines within the next 24 hours. I booked two passenger tickets this morning and paid with a credit card on the website. However, the price has significantly dropped this afternoon. If I cancel the booking, will I receive a full refund of the amount I paid?

When you book a flight with Southwest Airlines, it’s important to understand their cancellation and refund policies, especially if you’re considering canceling your flight within 24 hours of booking. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of what you need to know:

1. Cancellation Window

Southwest Airlines allows customers to cancel their flights within 24 hours of booking without incurring any fees. This policy applies as long as the flight is booked at least 10 days before the scheduled departure date. Since you mentioned that you booked this morning, you are still within this window.

2. Refund Process

If you decide to cancel your flight, the process is straightforward:

  • You can cancel your flight through the Southwest Airlines website or by contacting customer service.
  • Once canceled, the amount paid for the ticket will be refunded back to your original form of payment (in this case, your credit card).

3. Full Refund Eligibility

Since you booked your tickets today and are looking to cancel them within 24 hours:

  • You will receive a full refund of the price you paid, including any taxes and fees associated with the ticket purchase.
  • The refund typically processes back to your credit card within a few business days.

4. Price Drop Consideration

If you’re concerned about the price drop after purchasing your tickets:

  • If you successfully cancel your current booking and rebook at the lower fare, you’ll effectively save money.
  • However, ensure that there are seats available at that lower price before proceeding with cancellation.

Conclusion

In summary, if you cancel your Southwest Airlines flight within 24 hours of booking, you will receive a full refund of the price you paid.

Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:

  • Southwest Airlines Official Website: Provided detailed information on cancellation policies and procedures.
  • U.S. Department of Transportation: Offered insights into airline consumer protections regarding cancellations and refunds.
  • Travel Industry Publications: Discussed general airline practices related to fare changes and customer rights in ticketing scenarios.