Flying with Allegiant can be a budget-friendly option, but their cancellation policy can be tricky. Understanding how to cancel your Allegiant flight without incurring hefty fees is crucial. This guide will walk you through the process, explaining when you might be able to cancel penalty-free and what steps to take.
Understanding Allegiant's Cancellation Policy
Allegiant's cancellation policy isn't as straightforward as some other airlines. While they don't explicitly offer free cancellations, there are circumstances where you might avoid penalties. The key is timing and understanding your ticket type. There's a significant difference between canceling before and after your flight's departure.
Factors Affecting Cancellation Fees:
- Time of Cancellation: Cancelling closer to your departure date will almost certainly result in a penalty. The closer you get to your flight, the higher the fee.
- Type of Fare: Allegiant offers different fare types, and some include more flexibility regarding cancellations than others. Check your booking details carefully to see what options you have. Always review the fare rules before booking!
- Travel Insurance: Purchasing travel insurance at the time of booking may offer some protection against cancellation fees, especially if your cancellation is due to unforeseen circumstances like illness or a family emergency. This is a worthwhile consideration for peace of mind.
How to Cancel Your Allegiant Flight
The cancellation process itself is relatively simple, though the outcome depends on the factors mentioned above.
Step-by-Step Cancellation Process:
- Access Your Booking: Go to the Allegiant website and access your booking using your confirmation number or email address.
- Locate the Cancellation Option: Look for a "Manage Booking" or similar section. This is where you'll typically find the option to cancel your flight.
- Review Cancellation Fees: Before proceeding, carefully review the cancellation fees that will apply. Allegiant will clearly state the amount you will lose.
- Initiate the Cancellation: Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the cancellation.
- Keep Records: Save a copy of your cancellation confirmation for your records.
What to do if you are eligible for a refund:
If, for some reason, you are eligible for a refund, be sure to review the refund process clearly defined on the Allegiant website.
Strategies to Possibly Avoid Cancellation Fees
While completely avoiding penalties isn't always guaranteed, there are a few strategies to increase your chances:
- Book a Flexible Fare: If possible, opt for a more expensive fare that offers better flexibility in case you need to cancel.
- Cancel Well in Advance: The earlier you cancel, the better your chances of minimizing or avoiding fees altogether.
- Check for Travel Insurance Coverage: If you have travel insurance that covers trip cancellations, file a claim promptly. Provide all necessary documentation.
- Contact Allegiant Customer Service: While unlikely to waive fees in most cases, it is good to contact customer service and explain your situation. A compelling reason might lead to some leniency.
Key Considerations for Cancelling Allegiant Flights
- No-Show Penalties: Not showing up for your flight will likely result in significant penalties. Cancelling, even with a fee, is generally a better option than being a no-show.
- Credit vs. Refund: Allegiant often issues travel credits instead of cash refunds. Be aware of this policy before cancelling. They are more prone to issuing a credit than a full refund.
- Reacquaint Yourself with Your Fare Rules: Prior to booking, ensure you read the fare rules carefully to understand the cancellation policy associated with your chosen ticket.
Cancellation policies are subject to change. Always refer to Allegiant's official website for the most up-to-date information. Careful planning and understanding of the policy will greatly improve your chances of navigating a flight cancellation smoothly.
