Bravo, Delta.
The Atlanta-based airline announced Friday that it is extending how long travelers will have to use an eCredit after canceling an upcoming flight – and by a lot. If you cancel any flight scheduled in April or May, your eCredits can be used through May 31, 2022. That's right – a full two years.
Any eCredits you received from flights canceled in March will automatically be extended to that new timeline, too.
Those eCredits typically must be used within a year of the date you purchased the original flight. That creates a massive time crunch for travelers who booked upcoming flights long ago, making it all but certain they'd lose the value of their ticket.
Delta's massive expansion comes days after a group of U.S. senators pushed airlines to issue cash refunds to any traveler who cancels a flight – or at least make future travel vouchers valid indefinitely.
“Whether customers have been affected by recent schedule adjustments or want additional reassurance about upcoming travel, we’re now extending the ability to plan, re-book and travel with us for up to two years – giving Delta customers some extra breathing room,” Delta said in a statement.
Read more: How to use eCredits and vouchers on Delta and its competitors.
Unfortunately, this generous new policy doesn't apply to new tickets booked for future travel. But as the coronavirus pandemic drags on, that may change too.
This is just the latest example of how Delta has led the way with customer-friendly moves among the U.S. airlines. It was the first major airline to offer free change or cancellation on previously booked flights – not just new tickets. It allows free cancellation even for tickets booked with SkyMiles, waiving the usual $150 fee to get your miles back. The list goes on and on.
Hoping for a refund instead? Read our guide on when you're due a refund instead of an eCredit.
Bottom Line
You've now got two full years to rebook travel if you cancel an upcoming Delta flight.
Airlines are under pressure to do right by consumers while also protecting their business. Delta has consistently risen to that challenge, and this new policy is a reminder.
Lead photo courtesy of Delta
Good job Delta. 👍