Yes, you can cancel United Airlines flights and get a refund, but the outcome depends largely on your fare type and when you cancel the ticket. United Airlines offers several fare options, including refundable and non-refundable tickets, and each comes with different rules for cancellations and refunds. For travelers looking for flexibility, United provides a 24-hour risk-free cancellation policy. This means that if you book a flight and cancel it within 24 hours—and your flight is scheduled to depart at least seven days later—you are eligible for a full refund to your original form of payment, regardless of the fare type. This policy is especially helpful for travelers who need to finalize plans or make adjustments shortly after booking. For refundable tickets, canceling your flight at any time before departure will result in a full refund with no cancellation fee. These tickets are more expensive, but they offer peace of mind for travelers whose schedules may change. Non-refundable tickets, on the other hand, cannot be refunded for cash after the 24-hour grace period. However, United typically allows travelers to cancel and receive the value of their ticket as a future flight credit. These credits are valid for 12 months and can be applied toward a new booking, though passengers must pay any difference in fare if the new flight is more expensive. United has eliminated most change fees for standard Economy, Premium Economy, Business, and First-Class tickets on domestic flights and select international routes, allowing greater flexibility. However, Basic Economy fares remain the most limited. These low-cost tickets are not eligible for changes or cancellations after the 24-hour window, unless United initiates the cancellation or there’s a major schedule disruption. If United cancels your flight or significantly delays it—typically by more than two hours—you may request a full refund, even for non-refundable fares. In such cases, United may offer the option to rebook, accept travel credit, or request a full refund to the original payment method. Refunds are also available in situations involving denied boarding or if the airline is unable to deliver a purchased optional service, such as a paid seat upgrade or baggage allowance. To request a refund, you can go online to United’s official website, navigate to your booking, and follow the prompts for cancellation and refund eligibility. You may also use the refund request form or contact customer support. United processes eligible refunds within seven business days for credit card payments and up to twenty days for other forms of payment. Travelers should keep in mind that while optional extras are generally non-refundable, they may be reimbursed if unused due to a canceled flight. United Airlines' cancellation and refund policies provide a mix of flexibility and value, especially for travelers who plan ahead or purchase more flexible fare options. Knowing your ticket type and acting quickly can make the refund process easier and help you maximize the value of your travel investment. Always review your fare conditions at booking and monitor your flight status closely to take full advantage of United’s refund policy.