By James Pilcher
The Cincinnati Enquirer

Delta Air Lines Wednesday changed its policy on changing tickets, saying it won't charge fees to anyone who wants to fly home in the event of war.

The policy allows anyone who is away from home to return immediately; for anyone who was set to travel later to leave now; and anyone who planned to travel to postpone their trips. The policy applies for both domestic and international travel.

The airline is one of many to change its policy during the days leading up to war; others include United, US Airways, Continental and American.

Delta said that anyone who wants to return early from a trip must do so by March 27.

As for customers seeking to rebook travel for another time or destination (domestic or international), Delta will also waive any change fees or penalties. A refund will not be given, and the customer must pay any difference in fare. A nonrefundable Delta travel credit will be given if the new itinerary results in a lower fare. New travel plans must be created and tickets reissued by May 31 and all travel must be completed by Dec. 31.

Delta also is offering an increase in destinations available under its Web Fares last-minute discount program. The available cities are listed on its Web site. . Travelers must leave on Saturday and return on either Monday or Tuesday.

E-mail jpilcher@enquirer.com