Travel plans often shift at the last minute — a meeting runs long, a connection gets delayed, or something unexpected comes up. Fortunately, Delta Airlines offers a same-day flight change option to give you more flexibility. In this guide, you’ll learn how the policy works, how much it costs, who’s eligible, and strategies to make the change smoothly.
Delta’s same-day flight change option allows passengers to switch to another flight departing on the same calendar day as their original ticket — provided certain conditions are met. You must request the change within 24 hours before your originally scheduled departure, and the new flight must depart on that same day.
This option applies to travel within the U.S., Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. International itineraries usually do not qualify. Basic Economy fares are typically excluded from both confirmed and standby same-day changes.
Delta separates same day changes into two categories:
With this option, Delta assigns you a confirmed seat on a different flight that departs the same day. There’s no waiting around — your new seat is guaranteed (if available). You must request it no later than 24 hours before your original departure.
Rules & limits:
You cannot change your origin or destination.
You cannot convert a connecting flight into a nonstop route.
Basic Economy tickets are ineligible.
Fee may apply (unless you hold elite status).
If confirmed seats aren’t available, or if you qualify for a complimentary upgrade, you may be put on standby for another flight that day. You’ll get a seat only if one opens up.
Standby conditions:
Must request within the 24-hour window before departure.
Origin and destination cannot change.
Basic Economy fares are excluded.
Members of higher Medallion tiers get more flexibility (e.g., can standby for flights departing after your original).
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Eligible: Most refundable and non-Basic Economy fares (e.g., Main Cabin, First, Premium Select)
Ineligible: Basic Economy, many international tickets
Delta’s elite flyers receive extra benefits:
Diamond, Platinum, Gold Medallion: Fee waiver for same-day changes on eligible fares
Silver, general SkyMiles members, and nonmembers: Standard fee
Request must be made within 24 hours before the originally scheduled departure
New flight must depart later the same day
Only applies for travel within the contiguous U.S., Puerto Rico, and U.S. Virgin Islands
For most passengers, Delta levies a $75 USD fee for a confirmed same day change within eligible regions. However:
The fee may be waived for Diamond, Platinum, and Gold Medallion members
If your fare is refundable, you may be able to rebook without additional cost
The fee is nonrefundable once a standby seat is assigned
Always check with Delta or via the Fly Delta app before making changes to confirm the current pricing structure.
Here are the steps to switch flights on the same day:
Log in to your Delta account or use the Fly Delta app
Navigate to your upcoming trip
Click “Change Flight” or “Same Day Change”
Select from available flights departing that day
Choose the confirmed option if seats exist, or designate standby
Review any fees or fare differences
Confirm your change
Alternatively, you can request same day changes during web check-in or at the airport (subject to availability).
Yes — in certain cases. If you’re put on standby, and space opens in a higher cabin, you may be upgraded at no extra cost, provided:
The new flight is eligible
You satisfy the upgrade eligibility criteria (often tied to your fare type or Medallion status)
You are flying in specific markets (e.g., domestic U.S., certain routes between U.S. and Caribbean)
Always confirm with Delta if an upgrade is possible before finalizing.
Request early: The sooner you ask (within the 24-hour window), the better your chances.
Monitor flights: Keep an eye on less busy flights — smaller routes may have more open seats.
Use elite status: If you fly often, aim to earn Platinum or Diamond status to enjoy waived fees and greater flexibility.
Check via app: The Fly Delta app often shows same-day availability faster than airport agents.
Be flexible: If you’re open to alternate flights (not just the one you prefer), you increase your odds of success.
Yes — for most eligible fares, Delta allows you to request a same day change within the 24 hours before departure.
Yes — as long as your new flight departs on the same calendar day, and you’re within the 24-hour window.
Yes — typically $75 for confirmed changes, though it may be waived for certain elite-tier flyers.
No — Delta prohibits origin or destination changes on same day requests.
Delta’s same day flight change policy provides much-needed flexibility when plans shift unexpectedly. While not every fare class or international booking qualifies, the feature can be a lifesaver — especially for U.S. domestic travelers. Make sure you request your change within 24 hours of departure, check for availability, and leverage any elite status you may hold. With the right approach, you can travel with peace of mind knowing Delta has your back — even when your schedule changes.