Advantage of Flexible Fare
 

What is the advantage of a Flexible Fare? I spent a considerable amount of time comparing the fare rules for a particular flight and I can't figure out the advantage I gain from the Flexible Fare. The explanation that I got from reservations was indiscernible.

The restricted fare basis code of the flight is KKWNC12S

The flexible fare basis code of the flight is WKWRC24S

I am really concerned about any advantage I gain with the flexible fare if I have to cancel the trip before departure.

TIA

Flexible fares always seem to be very expensive--I've never purchased one and never will. I feel that I could always eat the cost of a non-refundable if I ever had to.

You have to read and compare the fare rules. Nobody here can give you specifics without the routing and date (in addition to the fare basis code you posted).

Generally speaking there are 3 things that could be different, in order of increasing cost:

(1) Nonrefundable, but changeable for a fee.
(2) Refundable OR changeable for a fee.
(3) Completely refundable or changeable, with no fee (other than a potential fare difference).

"Restricted" is probably #1.
"Flexible" could be #2 or #3. #2 seems to be more common on international itineraries, less common on domestic.
"Unrestricted" is probably #3.