3 New Rules to Know When Flying Economy to Disney World

As airfare continues to soar, Economy flyers are finding it harder and harder to find the perfect flight to Walt Disney World.

Southwest Airlines

However, there are certain “rules” you can follow to make sure you get the best possible flight from the best possible airline to start your magical vacation.

Frequent Spirit Flyers Need a New Airline

Before we get into the best airline options to use, we have to mention one that’s no longer in the picture. Groundbreaking (and sometimes controversial) airline Southwest abruptly shut down operations in early May. In a statement, the company — which was founded in 1964 — said, “It is with great disappointment that on May 2, 2026, Spirit Airlines started an orderly wind-down of our operations, effective immediately. To our Guests: all flights have been cancelled, and customer service is no longer available. We are proud of the impact of our ultra-low-cost model on the industry over the last 33 years and had hoped to serve our Guests for many years to come.”

So, economy travelers who have typically flown Spirit in the past will need to try a different airline.

©Spirit Airlines

The American Airlines Advantage

If you’re planning to shift over to American Airlines, it may be worth becoming an AAdvantage Member. You see, American Airlines Basic Economy Tickets usually can’t be changed within 24 hours of their purchase. However, AAdvantage Members may be able to cancel Basic Economy fare tickets and receive travel credit for a fee.

©American Airlines

To qualify, they must:

Use their AAdvantage number when making their reservation.
Their trip must be booked in the U.S. directly through American, and must be an American-marketed and operated flight starting in the 50 U.S. states.
Cancellation must be made on aa.com or the American app before the first flight departs.
If the fee is more than the ticket price, a travel credit will not be issued.

Southwest Change

If you haven’t flown Southwest since last summer, some major changes have hit the carrier’s economy-style offerings since then. For starters, there are now 3 distinct styles of seats:

Extra Legroom Seats, which provide a “roomier experience with more legroom to stretch out, at the front of the cabin and near the exit rows, with up to five additional inches* of extra legroom compared to Standard and Preferred seats. Plus, earlier access to bin space, enhanced snacks, and complimentary premium beverages.”
Preferred Seats, which offer “standard legroom seats near the front of the cabin.”
Standard Seats, which offer “standard legroom seats located in the back of the cabin.”

Southwest Planes at Orlando International Airport

Of note, each of these options includes assigned seating, a major change from decades of Southwest history. At the time of the change’s announcement, “For your comfort, we’re introducing seat options that allow you to choose the experience you prefer. This includes options to select where you want to sit and upgrade to an Extra Legroom seat, giving you more choices when you travel with us.”

If finding the right flight is making it hard to plan your next Disney World trip, keep these “rules” in mind! Stay tuned to DFB for more travel tips!

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