SkyWest Airlines, a major U.S. regional carrier based in St. George, Utah, operates flights under contract for partner airlines—Alaska Airlines (Alaska SkyWest), American Airlines (American Eagle), Delta Air Lines (Delta Connection), and United Airlines (United Express). As such, SkyWest’s cancellation policy is governed by the policies of the partner airline under which the flight is booked, as these partners handle scheduling, marketing, and ticketing. Below is a general overview based on available information, with guidance on how to proceed depending on the partner airline. Note that specific details may vary by fare type, route, and booking channel.
24-Hour Risk-Free Cancellation:
- Per U.S. Department of Transportation regulations, if you book a ticket directly through a SkyWest partner airline (e.g., Delta, United) or a third-party platform, you can cancel within 24 hours of booking for a full refund, provided the flight departs at least 7 days later (168 hours). This applies to all fare types, including non-refundable tickets, and no cancellation fee is charged.
- Refunds are processed to the original payment method, typically within 7–20 business days, depending on the partner airline’s processing timeline.
After 24 Hours:
- No-Show Policy: Failing to cancel before departure typically results in the full ticket value being forfeited, including for non-refundable fares, unless the partner airline offers a no-show waiver (e.g., United’s $75-$125 no-show fee for redepositing credit).
- Cancellation Fees: Fees vary by partner airline, fare type, and timing, typically $99-$200 for cancellations after 24 hours. For example, canceling a $100 ticket may result in no refund if the fee equals or exceeds the fare.
Special Circumstances:
- Airline-Canceled Flights: If SkyWest or the partner airline cancels your flight due to reasons within their control (e.g., mechanical issues), you’re entitled to a full refund (including non-refundable fares) or rebooking on the next available flight. Partner airlines may offer accommodations or meals for significant delays. For EU departures/arrivals, EC 261/2004 may provide up to €600 in compensation for cancellations with less than 14 days’ notice, unless caused by extraordinary circumstances (e.g., weather, air traffic control strikes).
- Weather-Related Cancellations: If the partner airline cancels due to weather, no cancellation fees apply, and you may receive a refund, travel credit, or rebooking. SkyWest’s policies align with the partner airline’s procedures, which may include temporary waivers (e.g., during hurricanes).
- Medical or Extenuating Circumstances: Refunds may be granted for serious illness, death of a family member, or other emergencies (e.g., stolen passport, judicial orders) with proper documentation. Contact the partner airline directly for case-by-case review.
- COVID-19 Waivers: Historical waivers (e.g., 2020–2021) allowed fee-free cancellations or credits for SkyWest-operated flights, but these have largely expired. Check the partner airline’s website for current waivers.
