Alaska Airlines suspends change, cancellation fees for new flight bookings due to coronavirus

As the coronavirus outbreak grows and concerns increase, Alaska Airlines is following JetBlue’s lead in suspending change and cancellation fees for new flight bookings starting Feb. 27 through Mar. 12.

In a release, the airline stated: If you book a flight prior to March 12, and then decide by that date to change or cancel your trip, you’ll receive full travel credit to fly with us later on — up to one year from the issuance of the credit. Fare differences may apply.

“We understand that information about the coronavirus is creating confusion and anxiety for some. Our first goal is to keep our guests safe, and offer peace of mind when it comes to flying with us,” said Andrew Harrison, executive vice president and chief commercial officer. “So, through this period, if you need to change your plans after booking a flight, we’ll work with you on new arrangements and you won’t have to worry about any change or cancellation fees.”

According to the release, the change in policy will apply to all the airline’s fares.

Officials with the airline said they are in close contact with their medical directors and federal agencies, staying on top of its preventative processes.

“While it sounds basic, all of us continuing to wash our hands well is the most important way to prevent infection with the novel coronavirus,” said Dr. John Lynch, medical director from the University of Washington Medicine Harborview Medical Center.

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