As travel started to shut down in March, most major airlines were generous in waiving change and cancellation fees—even if the actual process of getting a credit or refund was arduous for many fliers.
Don’t expect that practice to last forever. Travelers still have a chance at scoring record-low fares, and frequent-flier miles and status should be safe through at least 2021. But surcharges for changing or canceling a ticket will eventually come back.