Yes, you can cancel your United Airlines flight and receive a refund, but whether you’ll be eligible for a full refund depends on the type of ticket you purchased and the timing of the cancellation. United Airlines offers a few different cancellation options, and the refund policy varies based on several factors. The airline's cancellation policies are designed to accommodate a variety of traveler needs, from those with flexible tickets to those with more restrictive fare types, such as Basic Economy.

If you cancel your flight within 24 hours of booking, you are eligible for a full refund, regardless of the type of ticket you purchased, as long as the flight is scheduled to depart at least seven days later. This 24-hour cancellation policy is a significant benefit, especially for passengers who make bookings in advance and later change their plans. The refund will be issued to the original form of payment, and it typically takes a few business days for the amount to be processed. This policy applies to all fare types, including non-refundable tickets, and is one of the most flexible cancellation options United offers.

However, if you miss the 24-hour window, the cancellation policy becomes more restrictive, particularly for non-refundable tickets. United’s non-refundable tickets are usually less flexible and do not allow for cash refunds after the 24-hour period has passed. For these tickets, if you decide to cancel your flight, you will not get your money back in the form of a cash refund. Instead, you may receive a travel credit or voucher for the value of your ticket, which can be used for future travel on United Airlines. This credit typically expires one year from the date it is issued, and it can be used by the original passenger or transferred to someone else. However, the value of the ticket may be reduced by cancellation fees, depending on the route and fare type.

Passengers who purchase more flexible fare types, such as Main Cabin or premium cabin tickets, generally have better cancellation options. These tickets offer more flexibility in terms of changes and cancellations, often with fewer fees and better refund options. If you cancel a flexible ticket, you may be entitled to a full refund or at least a partial refund, depending on the fare rules for that specific ticket. In some cases, these flexible tickets allow you to cancel or change your flight without incurring a cancellation fee, or they may offer a reduced cancellation fee compared to non-refundable tickets.

If United Airlines cancels your flight, you are entitled to a full refund, regardless of the ticket type you purchased. Additionally, if the cancellation causes significant disruption, such as a long delay or an overnight stay, United may offer compensation, such as meal vouchers or hotel accommodations, depending on the circumstances.

Passengers who purchase tickets through third-party travel agencies or websites like Expedia may find that the cancellation and refund process differs. In these cases, you would need to follow the third-party provider’s policies, which may not be as flexible as those of United Airlines. For flights booked directly with United, the airline’s refund policies apply, and passengers can generally request a refund or travel credit through the airline’s website or customer service team.

In summary, while you can cancel your United Airlines flight and receive a refund, the terms depend largely on the type of ticket purchased and the timing of the cancellation. Cancellations made within 24 hours of booking are eligible for a full refund. After this window, non-refundable tickets typically offer a travel credit instead of a refund, while more flexible fare types provide greater opportunities for full or partial refunds. United’s policies are designed to offer flexibility and peace of mind to passengers, but it’s important to understand the specific terms and conditions of your ticket to know what options are available.