When booking a flight, the last thing you want to think about is canceling it. However, life happens, and plans change. If you’re flying with JetBlue, knowing their cancellation policy in advance can help you avoid unnecessary fees and maximize refunds.

As someone who has frequently booked and canceled flights with JetBlue, I know firsthand that while their policies are more flexible than some competitors, there are still restrictions and fees to watch out for. Here’s a detailed real-world guide to JetBlue’s cancellation policy, including refund eligibility, fees, and tips to get the most out of your cancellation.

1. JetBlue’s 24-Hour Risk-Free Cancellation Policy

JetBlue follows the U.S. Department of Transportation’s 24-hour rule, allowing you to cancel any ticket for a full refund if:

• The ticket was booked directly with JetBlue.
• The cancellation is made within 24 hours of booking.
• The flight departs at least seven days after booking.

✅ Full refund to the original payment method.

✅ Applies to all fare types, including non-refundable fares.

💡 Pro Tip: If you find a cheaper fare elsewhere, cancel within 24 hours and rebook at the lower price.

2. JetBlue’s Cancellation Policy by Fare Type

JetBlue’s cancellation policies vary based on which fare class you booked.

Blue Basic: The Most Restrictive Fare

• Cancellation fees apply.
• $100 per person for flights within North America, Central America, and the Caribbean.
• $200 per person for all other routes.
• The remaining balance (after fees) is issued as a JetBlue Travel Bank credit.

💡 Pro Tip: If you’re unsure about your travel plans, avoid Blue Basic fares—the cancellation fees can eat up most of your ticket value.

Blue, Blue Extra, Blue Plus, and Mint: No Cancellation Fees

• No cancellation fees.
• Receive a full credit in your JetBlue Travel Bank (valid for 12 months).
• If you paid with points, the points will be returned to your TrueBlue account, and any taxes/fees will be issued as a travel credit.

💡 Pro Tip: These fares offer great flexibility—if you think there’s even a small chance you might need to cancel, opt for Blue over Blue Basic.

Refundable Fares: Best for Maximum Flexibility

• Can be canceled anytime before departure.
• Full refund to the original payment method.

💡 Pro Tip: If your travel plans are uncertain, refundable fares offer peace of mind—but they are usually significantly more expensive.

3. How to Cancel a JetBlue Flight

Canceling a JetBlue flight is easy and can be done in multiple ways.

Cancel Online (Fastest & Easiest)

1. Go to JetBlue.com.
2. Click on "Manage Trips".
3. Enter your confirmation number and last name.
4. Select "Cancel Flight" and follow the prompts.

Cancel via Mobile App

1. Open the JetBlue app.
2. Tap “My Trips” and find your flight.

Select “Cancel Flight” and follow the instructions.

Cancel by Phone

• Call JetBlue Customer Support at 1-800-JETBLUE (538-2583).
• Have your confirmation number ready.

1. Ask about refunds or travel credits.

Cancel at the Airport

• Visit a JetBlue ticket counter before departure.
• Provide your booking details and request cancellation.

💡 Pro Tip: Cancel online whenever possible—it’s faster than waiting on hold with customer service.

4. What Happens If JetBlue Cancels Your Flight?

If JetBlue cancels your flight, you have a few options:

✅ Rebooking on the next available JetBlue flight at no extra cost.

✅ Full refund to your original payment method.

✅ JetBlue Travel Bank credit for a future flight.

💡 Pro Tip: If JetBlue cancels your flight and you no longer wish to travel, request a full refund instead of a travel credit. You are entitled to your money back.

5. JetBlue Travel Bank Credits: What You Need to Know

If you cancel a non-refundable ticket, JetBlue does not return your money—instead, you receive a credit in your Travel Bank.

Key Travel Bank Rules:

• Credits are valid for 12 months from the original booking date.
• Can be used to book any future JetBlue flight.
• Can be used for someone else’s ticket (doesn’t have to be the original traveler).
• Cannot be used for seat upgrades or baggage fees—only airfare.

💡 Pro Tip: Before paying with a credit card, check your Travel Bank balance—you may have unused credits from a previous cancellation.

6. JetBlue’s Policy for Award Tickets (Flights Booked with Points)

If you booked your flight using JetBlue TrueBlue points, the cancellation policy is straightforward:

• No cancellation fees.
• Points are refunded back to your TrueBlue account.
• Any taxes and fees paid are refunded as a Travel Bank credit.

💡 Pro Tip: Booking with points is a great way to avoid cancellation fees, especially if you’re unsure about your plans.

7. Common Questions About JetBlue Cancellations

❓ What happens if I cancel a non-refundable JetBlue ticket?

• You will receive a Travel Bank credit (valid for 12 months).
• If you booked a Blue Basic fare, a cancellation fee will be deducted.

❓ Can I get a cash refund for my JetBlue flight?

• Only if you booked a refundable fare.

Non-refundable fares receive Travel Bank credits instead.

❓ How do I use my Travel Bank credit for someone else?

• You can book a flight in another person’s name using your credits.
• Travel Bank credits do not have to match the traveler’s name.

❓ Can I cancel a JetBlue flight and rebook at a lower fare?

• Yes! Cancel your flight and receive Travel Bank credit.
• Use that credit to rebook at the lower price.

💡 Pro Tip: If fares drop after booking, cancel and rebook at the lower rate to save money.

8. How to Maximize Your Refund or Credit

✅ Cancel within 24 hours for a full refund.

✅ Book Blue, Blue Extra, or Blue Plus for flexibility.

✅ Use Travel Bank credits before they expire (valid for 12 months).

✅ If JetBlue cancels your flight, request a full refund instead of credit.

✅ If your fare drops, cancel and rebook at the lower price.

Final Thoughts: Is JetBlue’s Cancellation Policy Fair?

Among major airlines, JetBlue’s cancellation policy is one of the more flexible options, with no fees on most fares (except Blue Basic) and travel credits that can be used for others.

Pros of JetBlue’s Cancellation Policy:

✅ No cancellation fees for most fare types.

✅ Travel Bank credits can be used for others.

✅ Award flights have free cancellations.

Cons of JetBlue’s Cancellation Policy:

❌ Blue Basic fares have high cancellation fees.

❌ Travel Bank credits expire in 12 months.

❌ No cash refunds unless you book refundable fares.

💡 Final Pro Tip: If your plans are uncertain, avoid Blue Basic fares. Instead, book Blue, Blue Extra, or a refundable fare for more flexibility.