Unused airline tickets are a common issue for travelers. Whether you missed a flight or your travel plans changed, you may find yourself holding onto a ticket you can’t use. The good news is that there are several options for handling unused airline tickets. This article will explore what you can do with them, how to make the most out of the situation, and the steps you can take to get a refund or credit for future travel.
Understanding Unused Airline Tickets
Unused airline tickets refer to tickets that have not been used for travel. This could be due to cancellations, changes in plans, or missed flights. Depending on the type of ticket you purchased and the airline’s policies, you may have options for reusing or redeeming the ticket.
Types of Unused Airline Tickets
Before diving into what to do with an unused ticket, it’s essential to understand the different types of tickets:
Non-refundable Tickets: These tickets are typically cheaper but come with strict rules. If you don’t use the ticket, you usually can’t get a refund. However, some airlines allow you to use the value of the ticket toward a future flight.
Refundable Tickets: These tickets cost more but offer flexibility. If you don’t use the ticket, you can usually request a full refund, minus any service fees.
Award Tickets: These are tickets earned through frequent flyer miles or credit card points. These tickets may be subject to different cancellation policies depending on the airline’s frequent flyer program.
Partially Used Tickets: If you only used part of your ticket (for example, one leg of a round-trip flight), the airline may allow you to apply the remaining value to another flight.
7 Ways to Do with Unused Airline Tickets
There are several options available for unused airline tickets, depending on the airline’s policies and the type of ticket you purchased. Let’s explore these options in detail.
1. Request a Refund
For refundable tickets, the most straightforward option is to request a refund. This process is relatively simple, though the rules can vary depending on the airline.
How to Request a Refund:
Check the Airline’s Refund Policy: Before requesting a refund, make sure you understand the airline’s policy regarding cancellations and refunds. Some airlines may charge a processing fee or have time limits for requesting refunds.
Submit a Refund Request: Most airlines allow you to submit a refund request online through their website or by contacting customer service. Be prepared to provide details such as your ticket number, flight information, and reason for cancellation.
Wait for the Refund: Refunds can take several days to process, depending on the airline. In some cases, you may receive a refund to your original payment method, while others may issue credits toward future flights.
Things to Keep in Mind:
- Refundable tickets may have a higher upfront cost, but they offer peace of mind if you need to cancel your travel plans.
- Always check the refund window. If you wait too long, you might lose your chance for a refund.
2. Use the Ticket for Future Travel
If you have a non-refundable ticket, you may not be able to get your money back, but you can often use the value of the ticket for future travel. This option is common with airlines that allow you to apply unused ticket value as a credit for a new flight.
How to Use the Ticket for Future Travel:
Contact the Airline: Reach out to the airline’s customer service department to explain your situation. They will help you apply the value of your unused ticket to a new flight.
Rebook the Flight: Depending on the airline’s policies, you may need to pay any difference in fare if your new flight is more expensive than the original. Some airlines charge a rebooking fee, while others may waive this fee if the ticket is not used within a certain time frame.
Expiration Date: Be sure to check if your credit has an expiration date. Many airlines provide credits that must be used within a specific period (often 12 months).
Things to Keep in Mind:
Some airlines allow you to transfer the ticket value to another person, while others do not. Make sure to check the airline’s policy if you need to transfer the ticket to someone else.
Keep in mind that the airline may charge fees for changes or rebooking, so be prepared for additional costs.
3. Request a Voucher or Travel Credit
If your airline ticket is non-refundable and you cannot use it for future travel, some airlines may offer a travel voucher or credit. This option gives you a set amount of credit that can be applied toward future flights.
How to Request a Voucher or Credit:
Contact Customer Service: Call or email the airline to inquire about the possibility of receiving a voucher. Some airlines automatically issue vouchers for unused tickets, while others may require you to request one.
Understand the Terms: Ensure that you understand the voucher’s terms, including any restrictions on use, expiration dates, and possible blackout periods.
Things to Keep in Mind:
- Vouchers are typically non-transferable, so they can only be used by the person whose name appears on the ticket.
- Some airlines may issue a voucher in the form of a credit card or a paper voucher, which can be used to purchase tickets on future flights.
4. Donate the Ticket
If you can’t use your unused ticket, you might consider donating it to charity. Some airlines have partnerships with charitable organizations that accept donated airline tickets or miles. These donations may be used for various purposes, such as helping people travel for medical treatment, emergencies, or other essential needs.
How to Donate Your Ticket:
Check with the Airline: Not all airlines offer donation programs, so it’s best to reach out to the airline’s customer service to inquire about donation options.
Choose the Right Charity: Some airlines have specific charities with which they partner, while others allow you to donate to a charity of your choice. Make sure the organization you choose is registered and can accept the donation.
Things to Keep in Mind:
- Donations are typically non-refundable and are considered final. You won’t be able to get your ticket back once you donate it.
- The charity may be able to use the ticket or miles to cover the travel costs of a person in need.
5. Sell or Transfer the Ticket
In certain cases, airlines may allow you to sell or transfer your unused ticket to someone else. However, this option is more limited, as many airlines do not allow the transfer of tickets. Check the airline’s policy before attempting to sell or transfer a ticket.
How to Sell or Transfer a Ticket:
Review the Transfer Policy: Some airlines allow you to transfer a non-refundable ticket to another passenger for a fee. This is often subject to certain conditions, such as the name on the ticket being changed.
Sell the Ticket: If the airline’s policy permits, you may be able to sell the ticket to another traveler. However, be cautious when using third-party services or reselling your ticket, as this could violate the airline’s terms and conditions.
Things to Keep in Mind:
- Many airlines restrict the ability to transfer or sell tickets, especially non-refundable ones.
- Always check the airline’s terms to ensure you are complying with their policies.
6. Contact Travel Insurance Providers
If you purchased travel insurance along with your airline ticket, check to see if your policy covers unused tickets. Some travel insurance policies may reimburse you for the cost of unused tickets if you cancel for a covered reason, such as illness, injury, or severe weather.
How to File a Claim:
Review Your Insurance Policy: Look through your travel insurance policy to determine if it covers cancellations or unused tickets.
File a Claim: If you are eligible for a refund through your insurance, contact the insurance provider to start the claim process. You will need to provide documentation, such as proof of purchase and cancellation.
Things to Keep in Mind:
- Not all travel insurance policies cover unused tickets, so it’s essential to understand what’s included in your coverage.
- You may need to provide supporting documents, such as a medical certificate, to prove your reason for cancellation.
7. Accept the Loss
In some cases, especially if the ticket is non-refundable, there may be no way to recover the cost of the unused ticket. If this is the case, it may be best to accept the loss and move on.
Things to Keep in Mind:
- Always read the fine print when purchasing airline tickets, as understanding the rules will help you make informed decisions about cancellations and unused tickets.
- Consider purchasing travel insurance for future trips to protect yourself against cancellations and unused tickets.
Conclusion
Unused airline tickets don’t have to go to waste. Whether you’re looking for a refund, rebooking options, or travel credit, airlines offer a range of solutions. It’s important to know your rights and options based on the type of ticket you purchased. Always check the airline’s policies, and don’t hesitate to contact customer service if you need assistance. By understanding your choices, you can turn an unused ticket into a future travel opportunity or even a charitable donation.
