Cancellation Policy
Understanding cancellation fees, timelines, and your options for flight bookings
On This Page
- Introduction
- 24-Hour Risk-Free Cancellation
- Cancellation Windows & Refund Eligibility
- Cancellation Fees & Charges
- Understanding Fare Types
- Non-Refundable Bookings
- Refundable Bookings
- Airline-Initiated Cancellations & Schedule Changes
- Partial Cancellations & Segments
- Group Bookings (10+ Passengers)
- No-Show Policy
- How to Cancel Your Booking
- Special Circumstances & Exceptions
- Refund & Credit Processing Times
- Important Notes & Reminders
- Contact Us for Cancellation Assistance
Introduction
At ClearPath Travels, we understand that travel plans can change unexpectedly. This Cancellation Policy explains the terms, fees, and procedures for canceling flight bookings made through our trusted travel assistance platform.
Please review this policy carefully before booking. Cancellation terms vary significantly based on the airline's rules, the specific fare type purchased, and how close to departure you cancel. By booking through ClearPath Travels, you acknowledge that you have read and understood this Cancellation Policy.
24-Hour Risk-Free Cancellation
In compliance with U.S. Department of Transportation regulations, ClearPath Travels offers a 24-hour risk-free cancellation period for most flights. This allows you to cancel your booking within 24 hours of purchase for a full refund, regardless of the fare type.
This policy applies to flights originating from or operating within the United States. International bookings may have different terms based on local regulations.
Cancellation Windows & Refund Eligibility
The timing of your cancellation request directly affects the fees you'll pay and whether you're eligible for a refund. Use this guide to understand your options based on when you cancel:
| Period | Refund | Fees | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| Within 24 hours of booking | 100% refund | No fees | All fares (if booked 7+ days before departure) |
| 24 hours to 7 days before departure | Varies by fare type | Airline fees + service fee | Refundable fares only |
| 7-14 days before departure | Partial refund possible | Higher cancellation fees | Some refundable fares |
| Less than 7 days before departure | Usually non-refundable | Maximum penalties apply | Very limited |
| After departure (no-show) | 0% refund | Full fare forfeited | No refund available |
Cancellation Fees & Charges
When you cancel a booking, two types of fees may apply: airline-imposed cancellation fees and our service fee for processing the cancellation.
Airline Cancellation Fees
Airlines charge fees based on their fare rules. These typically range from $100 to $500 per ticket for domestic flights and can be higher for international bookings.
Our Service Fee
ClearPath Travels charges a nominal cancellation processing fee. This covers the administrative work of processing your cancellation with the airline.
Refundable Fares
Higher fare classes may have reduced or waived cancellation fees. Check your fare rules before booking.
Non-Refundable Fares
Most discounted fares are non-refundable. However, you may receive future travel credits minus the cancellation fee.
Understanding Fare Types
The type of fare you purchase determines your cancellation options. Here's a comparison of common fare types:
Basic Economy
- Lowest price
- Usually non-refundable
- No changes allowed
- No credits (usually)
- Strictest rules
Main Cabin/Economy
- Moderate price
- Often non-refundable
- Changes allowed for fee
- May offer credits
- Some flexibility
Premium Economy
- Higher price
- May be refundable
- Lower change fees
- Better credit options
- More flexibility
Business/First Class
- Highest price
- Usually refundable
- Minimal or no fees
- Full credits available
- Maximum flexibility
Fare rules vary by airline. Always review the specific fare conditions before completing your booking.
Non-Refundable Bookings
Most discounted and promotional fares are non-refundable. If you have a non-refundable ticket and need to cancel, here's what you should know:
- No cash refund is available after the 24-hour window
- Many airlines offer future travel credits (typically valid for 1 year from original booking date)
- Credits are usually minus the airline's cancellation fee
- Name changes are typically not permitted on non-refundable fares
- Credits often must be used by the same passenger
- Some airlines offer 'cancel for any reason' options for an additional fee
Even with non-refundable fares, always check if travel credits are available. Contact us before canceling to explore all options.
Refundable Bookings
Refundable fares offer greater flexibility at a higher price point. These bookings are ideal for travelers with uncertain plans.
- Full or partial cash refund available based on cancellation timing
- Lower cancellation fees compared to non-refundable fares
- More flexibility for date changes without penalty
- May allow name changes for a fee
- Refund processed to original payment method
- Typically 7-14 business days for processing after airline approval
Airline-Initiated Cancellations & Schedule Changes
When an airline cancels or significantly changes your flight, you have additional rights and protections:
Flight Cancellations
If the airline cancels your flight, you are entitled to a full refund regardless of fare type. You may also choose to rebook on an alternative flight at no additional cost.
Significant Schedule Changes
Schedule changes exceeding 3-4 hours (domestic) or 6+ hours (international) typically qualify for full refunds. Contact us to review your options.
Involuntary Rerouting
If the airline changes your routing substantially, you may be eligible for refund or compensation. We'll help you understand your rights.
Compensation Eligibility
Depending on the circumstances and applicable regulations (like EU261), you may be entitled to additional compensation beyond the ticket refund.
Always contact ClearPath Travels before accepting alternative flights from the airline directly. We can help ensure you receive all benefits you're entitled to.
Partial Cancellations & Segments
For multi-flight, round-trip, or multi-city bookings, partial cancellations have specific rules that can affect your entire itinerary:
- Canceling one segment may automatically cancel the remaining segments
- Using only the outbound flight may void the return portion (no-show on return)
- Some airlines reprice remaining segments at current (higher) fares
- Partial cancellations may trigger minimum stay requirements
- Contact us before making partial changes to understand all implications
Never skip a flight segment without canceling properly. This can result in automatic cancellation of all remaining flights on your itinerary.
Group Bookings (10+ Passengers)
Group reservations have different cancellation rules and require special handling:
- Stricter cancellation deadlines (often 45-60 days before departure)
- Higher cancellation fees (percentage-based rather than flat fees)
- Different rules for partial group cancellations
- May require written cancellation notice via email
- Deposits may be non-refundable after certain dates
- Name changes may be restricted or prohibited close to departure
For group booking cancellations, please contact our group department directly for specialized assistance.
No-Show Policy
If you miss your flight without canceling beforehand, you are considered a 'no-show.' This has serious consequences:
- No refund is available under any circumstances
- Future travel credits are typically voided
- Return flights on round-trip tickets are automatically canceled
- Any prepaid services (meals, seats, baggage) are forfeited
- Frequent flyer miles used may not be redeposited
Always cancel unwanted bookings before departure, even if you think you might not be eligible for a refund. This preserves potential credit options and avoids no-show status.
How to Cancel Your Booking
To cancel your flight booking, please follow these steps:
Gather Information
Have your booking confirmation number, passenger names, and flight details ready.
Contact Us
Reach out through email, phone, or our contact form. Clearly state that you wish to cancel.
Review Options
We'll explain your cancellation options, fees, and potential outcomes before proceeding.
Confirm Cancellation
Once you approve, we'll process the cancellation with the airline and provide confirmation.
Track Status
We'll keep you updated on refund status or credit issuance. Most airlines take 7-14 business days to process.
Always cancel through ClearPath Travels, not directly with the airline. Canceling directly may affect our ability to assist with refunds or credits.
Special Circumstances & Exceptions
In certain situations, airlines may waive standard cancellation policies. While approval is at the airline's discretion, we can help you submit documentation:
Medical Emergencies
Serious illness or injury of passenger or immediate family member. Requires doctor's certificate and sometimes additional documentation.
Bereavement
Death of an immediate family member. Death certificate required. Some airlines offer compassionate fares or fee waivers.
Military Orders
Active military with deployment, PCS, or leave cancellation orders. Official orders required.
Jury Duty
Court-ordered jury duty conflicting with travel dates. Court summons documentation required.
Natural Disasters
Hurricanes, earthquakes, or other events affecting travel. Airline-specific policies apply.
Travel Advisories
Government-issued travel warnings may allow fee-free changes. Subject to airline discretion.
Documentation must be provided in English or with certified translation. Submit within 14-30 days depending on airline policy.
Refund & Credit Processing Times
After you cancel, here's what to expect regarding processing times:
| Period | Refund | Fees | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3-10 business days | |||
| 7-14 business days | |||
| 3-10 business days | |||
| 7-21 days |
Total time from cancellation to receiving funds typically ranges from 2-6 weeks depending on the airline and your bank.
Important Notes & Reminders
Please keep these important points in mind when considering cancellation:
- Always cancel through ClearPath Travels, not directly with the airline
- Service fees are non-refundable even if the airline processes a refund
- Refunds are always processed to the original payment method
- Travel credits typically expire after 1 year from original issue date
- Some airlines charge a fee to reinstate miles used for award tickets
- Cancel before the flight to avoid no-show status
- Documentation for exceptions must be submitted promptly
- We're here to help - contact us with any questions before making decisions
Contact Us for Cancellation Assistance
Our dedicated cancellation team is available 24/7 to assist with cancellations, answer questions, and help you understand your options. We're committed to making the cancellation process as smooth as possible.
Need to Cancel Your Booking?
Our cancellation team is available 24/7 to assist with cancellations and answer any questions