LATAM Airlines Flight Changes Policy: All You Need to Know

Travel plans can change unexpectedly, and understanding the flight change policy of your airline is crucial. LATAM Airlines, one of the largest airlines in Latin America, offers flexibility in changing flights, depending on your ticket type and other conditions. This guide provides a complete overview of the LATAM Airlines flight changes policy to ensure a smooth experience when altering your travel plans.

Overview of LATAM Airlines Flight Change Policy

LATAM Airlines offers various options for changing flights based on the fare class, route, and the timing of your request. Whether you’re traveling domestically or internationally, LATAM has procedures in place that allow for adjustments in flight dates, times, or destinations.

Key Features of the Policy

Flexible Fare Types: Different levels of flexibility apply depending on whether you booked an Economy, Premium Economy, or Business Class ticket.
Same-Day Changes: LATAM offers the ability to make same-day changes on certain tickets.
Fees for Changes: While many changes can be made for free, fare differences and change fees might apply depending on when and where you’re traveling.
Multiple Channels for Changes: You can change your flight online, through LATAM’s mobile app, via their call center, or at the airport.

Importance of Understanding the Policy

Knowing the LATAM Airlines flight changes policy helps you avoid last-minute stress and unexpected fees. You’ll be better prepared to handle modifications to your itinerary without affecting your budget or schedule too much.

LATAM Airlines Fare Types and Change Flexibility

LATAM’s fare structure determines how much flexibility you have when changing flights. Let’s dive into the options available based on your ticket type.

Basic Economy Tickets

Basic Economy fares with LATAM are the least flexible and the most restrictive. Changes are often not allowed unless you upgrade to a more flexible fare type, and even then, fees and fare differences will likely apply.

Economy and Premium Economy Tickets

LATAM’s Economy and Premium Economy tickets allow for more flexibility. Changes may incur a fee depending on the timing, but in many cases, fare differences will be the only charge if you’re changing to a more expensive flight.

Business Class Tickets

Business Class tickets offer the highest level of flexibility. Generally, no change fees are required, and passengers can modify their booking more freely, though fare differences might still be applicable.

When Can You Change Your LATAM Flight?

The timing of your flight change request significantly affects how the policy applies.

Same-Day Flight Changes

LATAM offers same-day flight changes for certain routes and fare classes. You must ensure the new flight departs on the same day and travels along the same route. These changes are subject to seat availability and may require an additional fee, depending on your fare type.

Changes in Advance

If you’re planning to change your flight more than 24 hours before the scheduled departure, you will generally have more flexibility. For many fares, LATAM allows changes with minimal or no fees, but fare differences may apply if the new flight is more expensive.

LATAM Airlines Change Fees and Fare Differences

Understanding when and how LATAM applies change fees is key to making informed decisions about your travel plans.

No-Change Fee Options

LATAM often allows changes without a fee for more flexible tickets, particularly in Business Class or on premium routes. Economy passengers may also enjoy flexibility, especially for international routes, depending on the fare type.

Calculating Fare Differences

When changing your flight, any fare difference between your original ticket and the new flight will need to be paid. This is most common when upgrading to a more expensive flight or switching to a route with higher demand.

Special Circumstances for Waiving Fees

In certain situations, LATAM may waive change fees, such as:

Medical Emergencies: Presenting valid medical documentation.
Military Travel: For official government orders.
COVID-19-Related Changes: LATAM has implemented temporary flexibility for passengers affected by the pandemic.

Methods for Changing Your LATAM Airlines Flight

LATAM provides several ways to modify your flight, ensuring passengers can easily access support.

Changing Flights Online

The most convenient way to change your flight is through LATAM’s website. Log in to your account, view your booking, and select the option to change your flight. From there, you’ll be guided through available options.

Using the LATAM App

For those who prefer mobile solutions, LATAM’s app allows you to manage your flight and make changes on the go. The process mirrors the online system, making it simple to adjust travel plans anytime, anywhere.

Calling LATAM Customer Service

If you need more personalized assistance or have a complex change request, LATAM’s call center agents can help you navigate the process. Calling may also be necessary if you’re traveling on a partner airline or if your ticket has specific restrictions.

Changing Flights at the Airport

For same-day or last-minute changes, heading to a LATAM service desk at the airport is another option. However, availability can be limited, and it’s always recommended to try changing your flight online or via the app first.

What Happens After You Change Your LATAM Flight?

After modifying your flight, a few important factors may affect your travel experience.

Impact on LATAM Pass Members

Frequent flyers with LATAM Pass may see an impact on their miles earned if changes involve different fare classes or longer or shorter routes. It’s always good to check how your new flight will affect your mileage balance.

Baggage Allowance Adjustments

Changes to your flight may also affect baggage allowances. A change in fare class or destination could increase or decrease the number of bags you’re allowed to check or carry on board. Be sure to review your updated booking to avoid baggage fee surprises.

LATAM Airlines Flight Changes and Refund Policies

In some situations, LATAM offers refunds when flights are changed or canceled. Understanding these policies ensures that you’re able to recover part of your travel expenses when applicable.

Refund Eligibility After Flight Changes

You may be eligible for a refund if:

You cancel a more expensive fare and rebook on a cheaper flight.
Your flight is significantly delayed or canceled by LATAM.
You meet specific refund criteria, such as medical emergencies.

How to Request a Refund

Refund requests can be made online through LATAM’s customer portal or by contacting their customer service team. Refund processing times vary, but most take between 7 and 14 business days.

International Flight Change Considerations with LATAM Airlines

International travel often comes with additional complexities. LATAM’s international flights adhere to slightly different rules, depending on the country and region of travel.

International Flight Changes

International flights, especially long-haul routes, tend to have stricter change policies. Passengers are encouraged to make changes well in advance to avoid hefty fees and fare differences.

Codeshare Flights and Partner Airlines

LATAM is part of the oneworld alliance, and many flights are codeshares with partner airlines. If your flight involves a partner airline, different change policies may apply, and you may need to contact the operating airline directly for changes.

COVID-19 and LATAM Airlines Flight Changes Policy

Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, LATAM introduced temporary measures that allow more flexibility in flight changes.

Temporary Waivers and Flexibility

LATAM has waived change fees for passengers affected by COVID-19. This policy allows for unlimited date changes without penalties, although fare differences may still apply.

Special Waivers for Travel Disruptions

During certain travel disruptions, such as regional lockdowns or government-imposed restrictions, LATAM provides waivers for both flight changes and cancellations, ensuring passengers can adjust their travel plans as needed.

Frequently Asked Questions About LATAM Airlines Flight Changes Policy

Can I change my LATAM flight for free?

Yes, certain tickets, especially Business Class and flexible Economy fares, allow changes for free. However, Basic Economy fares may not offer the same flexibility.

How do I change my LATAM flight online?

You can change your LATAM flight by logging into your account on the LATAM website or mobile app, selecting the flight you want to change, and following the prompts.

Will I have to pay the fare difference when changing flights?

Yes, fare differences between your original flight and the new one may apply, even if no change fee is charged.

How far in advance can I change my LATAM flight?

You can change your LATAM flight up until the day of departure, though fees and fare differences may apply, depending on your ticket type and the timing of the change.

Are international flights subject to higher change fees?

Yes, international flights often come with higher fees and stricter rules for making changes. It’s important to check LATAM’s international flight policies before booking.

Can I get a refund if I change my LATAM flight?

Refund eligibility depends on the ticket type and circumstances of the change. Flexible tickets and certain scenarios, such as flight cancellations, may entitle you to a refund.

Conclusion

Understanding LATAM Airlines’ flight change policy can help you navigate unexpected changes to your travel plans with ease. Whether you’re making changes online, through their app, or at the airport, LATAM offers several options to ensure that you can travel without added stress.