When you book with Spirit Airlines, you’re usually doing it to save money. It’s one of the most affordable ways to fly in the U.S. But what happens when your plans change? Knowing the Spirit Airlines cancellation policy can save you time, money, and a lot of stress. Whether you booked a last-minute ticket or planned your trip months in advance, understanding the airline’s rules and fees around cancellations is crucial.
This guide is for you—the budget-conscious traveler—who wants to know exactly what to expect if you ever need to cancel a flight with Spirit. Let’s break it all down simply and clearly.
What Is Spirit Airlines Cancellation Policy?
The Spirit Airlines cancellation policy outlines what passengers can and cannot do when it comes to canceling a reservation. It also provides a structure for any fees involved and how refunds (if applicable) work.
Spirit Airlines is known for its no-frills service, and that philosophy also applies to its cancelation policy. That means the sooner you cancel, the better your chances are of saving money.
24-Hour Free Cancellation Rule
What You Need to Know About the 24-Hour Rule
One of the most important parts of the flight cancellation policy is the 24-hour free cancellation rule. If you book a flight and then change your mind within 24 hours, you can cancel it without paying any cancellation fees—as long as your flight is more than 7 days away.
This rule is a federal regulation and not exclusive to Spirit, but it’s one of the best ways to cancel without losing money.
Key Point: Always double-check your itinerary within the first day. If there’s any mistake or change of plans, cancel it right away for free.
Cancellation Fees Explained
How Much Does Spirit Charge?
After the 24-hour window closes, Spirit charges a cancellation fee based on how close your departure date is:
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60+ days before departure: No fee
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31-59 days before: $69
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7-30 days before: $99
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0-6 days before: $119
These amounts can change, so always confirm them at the time of cancellation.
The Spirit Airlines cancellation policy is built around saving money for the airline—so if you wait too long, you’ll pay more. Spirit does not offer traditional refundable tickets, so all fares are subject to these charges unless you purchase additional protection.
Cancellation Policy Refund Details
Can You Get a Refund?
Generally, Spirit doesn’t issue cash refunds. Instead, they offer Reservation Credits. These are credits you can use for future travel with Spirit. According to their cancellation policy refund rules, these credits are valid for 12 months from the issue date.
Note: If Spirit cancels your flight for any reason, you are entitled to a full refund or free rebooking.
But if you initiate the cancellation, expect credits, not cash. Make sure you use them within the 12-month period, or they’ll expire.
How to Cancel Your Spirit Airlines Flight
Steps to Cancel
You can cancel your booking easily by following these steps:
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Go to Spirit’s official website or app.
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Click on “My Trips.”
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Enter your name and confirmation code.
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Select your trip and click “Cancel.”
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Confirm the cancellation and check your email for the credit voucher.
Alternatively, you can cancel by calling +1-855-662-4577, which is especially helpful if you have trouble online.
Following the steps correctly ensures you get any credit due and avoid additional charges.
What About Travel Insurance or Flex Add-ons?
Do These Help with Cancellations?
Yes, they do. If you buy Spirit’s “Flight Flex” add-on during booking, you’ll be able to modify or cancel your booking once without paying the change fee. However, it does not cover last-minute cancellations (within 24 hours of departure).
Also, if you buy third-party travel insurance, check their terms carefully. Some plans will refund you even if Spirit won’t—especially for emergencies like illness or natural disasters.
Having extra protection can help when Spirit’s cancelation policy feels too strict.
Spirit Airlines Cancellation for COVID, Illness, or Emergencies
Are There Exceptions?
While the basic flight cancellation policy is clear, Spirit has made temporary adjustments in special circumstances like COVID-19. If you fall sick or face a medical emergency, Spirit may waive the cancellation fee—but documentation is often required.
To make such a request, call customer support at +1-855-662-4577 and explain your situation. Keep in mind, they handle these on a case-by-case basis.
Credits vs Refunds: What’s the Difference?
Understanding Your Options
If you cancel voluntarily, Spirit issues you a Reservation Credit, which is not the same as a full refund. Under the Spirit Airlines cancellation policy, you only get a cash refund if Spirit cancels the flight.
These Reservation Credits:
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Can be used for booking any Spirit flight
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Are valid for 12 months
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Must be used by the same passenger (not transferable)
Knowing the cancellation policy refund process helps avoid confusion when it’s time to use your credit.
Canceling Award Flights (Miles)
What If You Used Miles?
If you used Spirit’s Free Spirit miles to book, the cancellation process is similar. You’ll be refunded your miles minus the applicable cancellation fee. The miles are returned to your Free Spirit account.
Again, cancelling earlier costs less, so try to decide as soon as possible.
Spirit Airlines Flight Cancellations by the Airline
What Happens Then?
Sometimes, Spirit might cancel a flight due to weather or operational issues. In these cases, you have two choices:
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Get a full refund to your original payment method
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Accept rebooking on the next available flight
These are covered under the flight cancellation policy, and you don’t have to pay any fees.
If your flight is canceled by the airline, act fast to get the best alternative or refund option.
FAQs
1. What is Spirit Airlines cancellation policy for basic fares?
Spirit’s basic fares follow the same Spirit Airlines cancellation policy as all others: 24-hour free cancellation, then increasing fees based on how close you are to departure.
2. Can I cancel Spirit Airlines flight within 24 hours?
Yes. You can cancel within 24 hours of booking for free, if your flight is more than 7 days away.
3. Will Spirit Airlines refund me if I cancel my flight?
You won’t get a cash refund unless Spirit cancels your flight. Otherwise, you’ll receive a Reservation Credit per the cancellation policy refund rules.
4. How do I contact Spirit Airlines to cancel my flight?
You can cancel online or call +1-855-662-4577 for direct assistance with any cancelation policy concerns.
5. What happens if I miss my Spirit Airlines flight?
If you miss your flight and don’t inform Spirit in advance, your ticket is forfeited, and no credit or refund is given.
Final Thoughts on Spirit Airlines Cancellation Policy
If you’re traveling on a budget, it’s essential to fully understand the Spirit Airlines cancellation policy. It’s not the most flexible, but it’s transparent. Spirit operates on a low-cost model, so extra services like cancellations and refunds come with added rules and fees.
Plan ahead. Cancel early if you must. Use the 24-hour window wisely. And don’t forget—buying trip protection or Flight Flex can sometimes be worth the extra cost.
By being informed, you can avoid unnecessary fees, protect your travel investment, and stick to your budget. Whether you’re flying solo or taking the family along, knowing the ins and outs of the cancelation policy can turn a stressful situation into a manageable one.
Remember, Spirit isn’t trying to trick you—they just expect you to read the fine print. Now you have.
