Why Airlines Dislike Skiplagging: Understanding the Issues

Discover why airlines are against skiplagging and how it affects their revenue and operations.

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Airlines dislike skiplagging because it disrupts their revenue models and seat allocation strategies. When passengers use hidden-city ticketing, airlines lose out on potential revenue, as these tickets are often cheaper. Skiplagging leads to empty seats on connecting flights, affecting overbooking practices and increasing operational costs. Additionally, frequent skiplaggers risk being penalized, with actions like frequent flyer account termination. Overall, it introduces unpredictability that airlines strive to minimize for efficient operations.

FAQs & Answers

  1. What is skiplagging in air travel? Skiplagging, or hidden-city ticketing, is when a passenger books a flight with a layover, but only travels to the layover destination instead of the final ticketed destination.
  2. Why do airlines want to discourage skiplagging? Airlines dislike skiplagging because it undermines their revenue models, leads to empty seats on flights, and complicates their overbooking and operational strategies.
  3. Can skiplagging affect frequent flyer status? Yes, frequent skiplaggers may face penalties from airlines, including the potential termination of their frequent flyer accounts due to violations of the airlines' terms of service.
  4. Are there risks associated with skiplagging? Yes, passengers who engage in skiplagging risk facing penalties from airlines, such as being denied boarding or losing loyalty program benefits.