LOUISVILLE, Ky. – If you’re planning holiday flights, consumer advocates say there’s one thing you don’t want to overlook: the expiration date on airline vouchers and travel credits. Some travelers are learning the hard way that those credits can run out much sooner than expected.
A recent traveler says she canceled her trip for medical reasons and was surprised to learn her airline credit would only be valid for six months. She expected to have more time, especially after following her doctor’s advice to postpone travel.
After reviewing the policy, she discovered the clock starts from the date the ticket was originally purchased, not the date the flight was canceled. That left her with only a short window to rebook another trip.
Another traveler shared a similar experience after canceling a vacation with friends due to health concerns. He received a large flight credit, but after his recovery took longer than expected, he attempted to rebook — only to find the credit had already expired.
Consumer experts say this is becoming more common as airlines tighten rules on basic economy fares and promotional credits. While some major airlines issue credits that last up to a year, others have shifted to significantly shorter expiration periods, especially on their lowest-tier tickets.
Advocates recommend reviewing airline policies before booking, setting reminders for any credits you receive, and carefully considering whether a basic economy fare — with its stricter rules — is worth the small upfront savings.
Being aware of the fine print can help ensure you don’t lose the value of a flight you’ve already paid for.
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