Yes, you can cancel United Airlines flights and get a refund in certain cases, but the refund eligibility depends on the type of ticket you purchased, when you cancel, and the reason for the cancellation. United Airlines follows a flexible cancellation policy that includes a 24-hour risk-free cancellation window. If you book a flight and decide to cancel within 24 hours, and your departure is at least seven days away, you are entitled to a full refund to your original form of payment, regardless of the fare type. This applies to both non-refundable and refundable tickets and is designed to give passengers peace of mind right after booking. Outside of this window, refund rules are different depending on the ticket category. If you purchased a refundable ticket, you can cancel your flight at any time before departure and receive a full refund without any cancellation fee. These refundable fares are usually more expensive, but they offer greater flexibility and are ideal for travelers whose plans may change. On the other hand, non-refundable tickets—typically the most common and economical option—do not qualify for a cash refund if you cancel after the 24-hour grace period. However, United usually allows you to cancel and retain the value of the ticket as a credit, known as a flight credit or travel credit. This credit can be used toward a future United flight, and in most cases, it remains valid for 12 months from the original issue date. United eliminated most change fees for standard economy and premium cabin tickets within the U.S. and certain international destinations, making it easier for travelers to change or cancel their plans without penalty. However, Basic Economy tickets are the exception. These tickets are highly restricted and generally cannot be canceled or changed unless you do so within the 24-hour risk-free window. If your flight is canceled by United, or there is a significant schedule change or delay—usually more than two hours—you are eligible for a full refund, even if you purchased a non-refundable ticket. In this situation, you can request a refund to your original payment method rather than accepting a credit. Additionally, if you experience a major disruption such as denied boarding due to overbooking, United may also offer compensation or refunds under U.S. Department of Transportation guidelines. Refunds for eligible tickets can be requested online through United’s website by logging into your account, managing your booking, and selecting the refund option. You can also use the refund request form or contact customer service. If your request is approved, United typically processes credit card refunds within 7 business days, while other forms of payment may take up to 20 business days. Optional fees for seat upgrades or baggage may be refunded in some cases, especially if the service was not used. In summary, United Airlines does allow cancellations and refunds under specific conditions. Understanding your ticket type, acting quickly, and knowing your rights as a traveler are essential to making the most of United’s refund policy.