Delta - cancel or no-show

If a person isn't going to make a flight with a non-refundable economy class fare if they cancel will they get a credit for a future flight or is there even a reason to cancel since the seat is non-refundable?

If a person isn't going to make a flight with a non-refundable economy class fare if they cancel will they get a credit for a future flight or is there even a reason to cancel since the seat is non-refundable?

Generally, even nonrefundable tickets usually have some value. For a domestic ticket, most airlines will allow you to cancel, pay a change fee (around $150 for a domestic ticket, $250 for an international) and then have the value of the ticket to use on another flight. This usually must be used within one year of the original ticketing date.

So, if your ticket cost more than the change fee, it's worth it to cancel before the flight if you know you aren't going to make it.

Also, on some carriers if you "no show" without canceling your ticket could be suspended and lose any residual value. You should always cancel a flight you're not going to take. It maintains any value you might have and also opens the inventory for last-minute flyers.

If a person isn't going to make a flight with a non-refundable economy class fare if they cancel will they get a credit for a future flight or is there even a reason to cancel since the seat is non-refundable?

Emphasizing the comment from Sapete- if you are a no-show, the remaining part of your itinerary will be cancelled, and you will forfeit the remaining ticket value.

As long as you call the airline they will preserve the rest of your itinerary and issue a credit. (Non-refundable fares are changeable). There will be a change fee of $125-$150 on most airlines (Southwest does not charge change fees, yet). In all cases, the credit is good for a future flight within 12 months of the date you purchased the original ticket, not the date of travel.

Delta's website has all the details that are specific to them. This assumes you purchased through Delta...if it's a cruiseline ticket, then it most likely is truly non-changeable. If that's the case, call the cruise line to find out since you're not Delta's customer.

Agree...Please never just be a "don't show" whatever the situation.

As an airline employee, please do cancel a flight you aren't going to take. When we fly using our benefits, we count on the loads to help us plan our commute. It also helps others book flights, which in these times of flights being so full, can really make a difference. Thanx for the question and the chance to pass this along.