Sun Country Airlines Cancellation Policy: A Complete Guide

When you book a flight with Sun Country Airlines, you’re likely looking forward to a smooth travel experience. However, unexpected situations like emergencies, scheduling conflicts, or personal changes in plans may lead you to need to cancel or modify your flight. That’s why understanding Sun Country Airlines Cancellation Policy is crucial. Whether you're dealing with a refundable or non-refundable ticket, the cancellation process can vary. Fortunately, this guide will help you navigate the policy, offering insights into how to manage flight cancellations, the applicable fees, and your rights as a passenger.

About Sun Country Airlines

Sun Country Airlines is a low-cost U.S.-based carrier headquartered in Minneapolis, Minnesota. It operates flights to over 80 destinations, primarily within the United States, but also to several international locations. Known for its affordable fares, Sun Country serves both leisure and business travelers, offering a range of amenities and services that cater to a variety of passenger needs.

Although Sun Country Airlines is known for offering lower fares, which are a great option for travelers on a budget, it is essential to understand the cancellation policies and fees that may apply in the event you need to cancel or change your flight.

Sun Country Airlines Cancellation Policy Overview

Sun Country Airlines’ ticket cancellation policy differs depending on the type of ticket purchased. In general, the two main types of tickets available are refundable tickets and non-refundable tickets. Each has its own set of rules and flexibility regarding cancellations, so it’s important to know what options you have when things don’t go as planned.

Refundable Tickets

As the name implies, refundable tickets allow you to cancel your flight and receive a refund. However, this is only applicable if the cancellation is made before the scheduled departure of the flight. Refundable tickets typically come at a higher price than non-refundable tickets, but they offer a significant advantage in terms of flexibility.

• Full Refund: If you have a refundable ticket and decide to cancel, you can expect a full refund to your original payment method. This is true as long as you cancel before your flight departs. In the case of a missed flight, you may not be entitled to a refund, so it’s important to cancel in advance if you anticipate changes.

• Refund Timeframe: Refunds typically take between 7 and 10 business days to process, depending on your bank or credit card provider. However, in some cases, it may take longer.

Refundable tickets are ideal for passengers who might need to change their travel plans, as the ticket cost can be fully refunded without penalties or fees.

Non-Refundable Tickets

The non-refundable ticket is the most common ticket option offered by Sun Country Airlines, and it typically comes at a lower price than refundable tickets. However, as the name suggests, this ticket type does not offer a full refund if you choose to cancel. Instead, if you cancel your flight, Sun Country Airlines will typically issue travel credit in the amount of the fare paid for the flight, minus any applicable cancellation fees.

• Travel Credit: When you cancel a non-refundable ticket, the value of the flight (minus any cancellation fees) will be issued as a travel credit. This credit can be used toward future flights with Sun Country Airlines, but it is usually subject to specific expiration dates.

• Expiration of Travel Credit: Generally, travel credits are valid for one year from the date of your original booking. It’s important to keep track of the expiration date to ensure you don’t lose the value of your credit.

• Cancellation Fees: Cancellation fees for non-refundable tickets can range between $39 to $79 per segment, depending on how soon you cancel the flight and the type of fare you purchased.

Cancellation Fees

Sun Country Airlines charges cancellation fees for both refundable and non-refundable tickets, but the fees differ. For non-refundable tickets, if you cancel within certain timeframes, you may still receive travel credit, but with a penalty fee deducted.

• More than 60 Days Before Departure: If you cancel more than 60 days before your scheduled departure, you will likely not face any cancellation fees for both refundable and non-refundable tickets.

• Between 14 and 59 Days Before Departure: If you cancel between 14 and 59 days before your flight, Sun Country Airlines typically charges a cancellation fee of $39 per segment.

• Within 14 Days of Departure: If you cancel within 14 days of your departure, the cancellation fee is typically $79 per segment.

Sun Country Airlines provides more favorable cancellation terms the earlier you make the change, so it’s always best to cancel as soon as you know that your plans have changed.

How to Cancel a Flight with Sun Country Airlines

Canceling a flight with Sun Country Airlines is easy and can be done through a variety of methods. Here are the main ways you can cancel your flight:

• Online: The easiest and most efficient way to cancel your Sun Country flight is by visiting the airline’s website. Head to the “Manage My Booking” section, where you will be prompted to enter your flight details. After you locate your booking, you can choose the option to cancel and either apply for a refund (if applicable) or request travel credit.

• Mobile App: Sun Country Airlines also offers a mobile app that allows you to manage your bookings on the go. You can cancel your flight through the app by following similar steps to those on the website.

• Customer Service: If you prefer to speak with a representative, you can call Sun Country Airlines’ customer service. Be ready with your booking reference number and details, so the agent can assist you with the cancellation process.

• Airport Counter: While it’s not the most common way to cancel a flight, you can also cancel your ticket at the airport ticket counter if you are already at the airport.

What Happens if Sun Country Cancels Your Flight?

If Sun Country Airlines cancels your flight due to factors such as weather conditions, operational issues, or other reasons within their control, you are entitled to a full refund, regardless of the type of ticket you purchased.

In addition to a full refund, if your flight is canceled by Sun Country, the airline will generally offer to rebook you on the next available flight. Depending on the situation, Sun Country may also provide compensation, such as meal vouchers or hotel accommodations if you are stranded due to the cancellation.

Special Circumstances: Waivers for Fees

Sun Country Airlines offers certain exceptions in special cases, such as medical emergencies or family crises. If you are unable to travel due to illness, death in the family, or military orders, Sun Country may waive cancellation fees with proper documentation.

• Medical Emergency: If you need to cancel your flight due to illness or injury, you may be able to have the cancellation fees waived, provided you submit appropriate medical documentation.

• Death in the Family: In cases of a death in the family, Sun Country Airlines may waive the cancellation fees and allow you to reschedule or refund your ticket. Documentation such as a death certificate will be required.

• Military Orders: Active-duty military personnel can often get their cancellation fees waived if they are called to duty unexpectedly. Proof of military orders will be necessary for this waiver.

Travel Insurance and Cancellations

To mitigate the financial risk of a last-minute cancellation, consider purchasing travel insurance. Travel insurance typically covers situations such as trip cancellations, lost luggage, flight delays, and more. If you have travel insurance, your policy may cover non-refundable tickets and cancellation fees, depending on the circumstances. Always read the fine print of your insurance policy to understand what is and isn’t covered.

Final Thoughts

Understanding Sun Country Airlines Cancellation Policy can save you time, money, and frustration when your plans change. Whether you have a refundable ticket or a non-refundable ticket, it's crucial to be aware of the cancellation fees, the refund process, and the options for rescheduling. For those with non-refundable tickets, knowing how to request travel credit and understanding the terms and expiration date of the credit can help you get the most out of your purchase. Additionally, being proactive by canceling your flight as early as possible will help minimize fees.

Sun Country Airlines strives to make cancellations as seamless as possible, and they offer flexibility in certain situations. Always check the terms of your ticket and stay informed about special exceptions and waivers that may apply. With the right knowledge and preparation, you can manage any changes to your travel plans effectively and confidently.