United Airlines charges varying cancellation fees depending on the type of ticket purchased and the timing of the cancellation. For most standard tickets, particularly non-refundable ones, the airline typically charges a fee for changes or cancellations. However, the specifics of the fee can depend on whether the passenger is booking a domestic or international flight and what type of fare class they purchased.

For non-refundable tickets, which are the most common for low-cost fares, United generally charges a cancellation fee if a passenger decides to cancel their flight after the initial 24-hour window from booking. United Airlines allows passengers to cancel non-refundable tickets within 24 hours of booking for a full refund, provided the flight is scheduled to depart at least seven days later. After this 24-hour period, passengers cannot receive a full refund, but they can often cancel the flight for a fee. The cancellation fee for domestic flights typically ranges from $200 to $400, depending on the fare class and route. International flights may have slightly higher cancellation fees, which can range from $400 to $500 or more. The exact fee depends on the specific route, the type of fare purchased, and the terms and conditions of the ticket.

If a passenger with a non-refundable ticket decides to cancel, the value of the ticket is usually converted into a travel credit or voucher, which can be used for future flights with United Airlines. The travel credit generally expires within one year from the date of issuance, and it can be used by the passenger or someone else. This travel credit is the only compensation passengers with non-refundable tickets typically receive. The cancellation fee is deducted from the original ticket price before the credit is issued.

For more flexible tickets, such as those purchased under United’s “Flexible Fare” options or First/Business class fares, the cancellation process is more accommodating. Passengers with these types of tickets can often cancel their flight without a penalty or with a much lower cancellation fee. In some cases, they may even be eligible for a full refund without incurring any charges, as long as they cancel well before the flight's scheduled departure. For these fare types, United Airlines allows passengers to change or cancel their reservations without a cancellation fee, though there may still be differences depending on the specific terms and conditions of the ticket purchased.

United Airlines also allows for changes to be made to existing bookings, such as altering flight dates or rerouting, but this typically involves a change fee in addition to any fare differences. The change fee for domestic flights can range from $200 to $400, and international flights can carry a higher fee. However, during certain promotional periods or if a passenger has elite status within the MileagePlus loyalty program, some of these fees may be waived or reduced. It’s also important to note that if the change is due to circumstances beyond the passenger’s control—such as an illness, emergency, or government restrictions—United may offer some flexibility or waive the fee, although this is not guaranteed.

For passengers booking flights through United's economy class, particularly in the Basic Economy fare category, cancellation is usually not permitted. Basic Economy tickets are the most restrictive in terms of changes and cancellations. These tickets are non-refundable and non-transferable, and passengers who wish to cancel will typically lose the entire ticket value. However, if the traveler has to cancel within the 24-hour grace period, they can still receive a full refund.

In summary, United Airlines’ cancellation fees vary based on the type of ticket and when the cancellation occurs. Non-refundable tickets come with cancellation fees ranging from $200 to $500, while more flexible fare options typically have lower fees or allow cancellations without penalty. Passengers are encouraged to review the specific terms of their ticket, especially when purchasing non-refundable fares, to understand the cancellation fees and options available should their travel plans change.