The biggest difference between “Basic” and “Econo” fares is the ability to change or cancel. With Basic, you can’t — for any reason.

That’s why Basic is priced lower than regular Econo fares. In exchange for a bit of a deal, you take on the extra risk and lack of flexibility. Same as buying a prepaid, non-refundable hotel stay.

They make no exceptions to the “no change, no cancel” feature of Basic, because that’s essentially what the product is and why it’s priced the way it is.