Alaska Airlines Reservation Policy: What You Can and Can't Do with Your Ticket

Travel plans don’t always go as expected, and understanding the Alaska Airlines reservation policy can save you stress, fees, and confusion. Whether you need to cancel, change, or simply confirm what’s allowed on your fare, this guide breaks down everything you can—and can’t—do with your ticket.

1. 24-Hour Risk-Free Cancellation

Alaska Airlines offers a 24-hour cancellation window for all tickets booked at least two days before departure. You can cancel or make changes within 24 hours of purchase for a full refund—no questions asked and no penalties. This applies to both refundable and nonrefundable fares, including Saver fares, giving you peace of mind if your plans shift right after booking.

2. No Change Fees on Most Fares

Since May 1, 2021, Alaska has eliminated change fees on Main and First Class fares. That means you can modify dates, times, or even routing without paying extra service charges. Remember, you’re still responsible for any difference in fare price or taxes if the new flight costs more

3. Saver Fares: Tight Restrictions

Saver fares—the airline’s basic economy option—are budget-friendly but come with limitations:

No changes allowed after the 24-hour risk-free period.
Cancellations beyond 24 hours aren’t refundable but may receive a travel credit toward future flights if done at least 14 days before departure (usually 50% of the base fare plus full taxes and fees)
Boarding is last, and seat assignment options are limited.

4. Refund Eligibility

Refunds are granted under these circumstances:

Fully refundable tickets: Refunds any time before departure.
Nonrefundable tickets: Only refundable if canceled within 24 hours of purchase.
Schedule changes or cancellations by Alaska Airlines: Eligible for full refund or rebooking with no penalty.
Significant delays or cancellations: DOT rules now require refunds for delays over three hours domestically (or six hours internationally), routing changes, or downgrades in service class.

5. No-Show Policy

Failing to show up without cancelling triggers Alaska’s no-show policy: all segments of your reservation, including return flights, will be automatically canceled. Your ticket value is forfeited unless you call beforehand to cancel or change your reservation

6. Same-Day Changes and Standby

Alaska welcomes same-day flight changes for customers holding refundable coach or First Class tickets. You can request a new flight on the day of travel with no change fee, subject to seat availability. Standby service may also be available at the airport for an additional fee or mileage redemption

7. Ticket Validity and Travel Credits

Every Alaska Airlines ticket is valid for one year from the original outbound travel date. If you cancel a refundable fare, the value returns to your original form of payment. For nonrefundable fares, unused value turns into a travel credit, which can be applied toward new bookings as long as travel departs within that one-year window

For complex itineraries or questions, Alaska’s customer service and reliable partners like Aeroflyticket (? +1-855-956-2158) are ready to help.