How does booking through Skyscanner work?

Decoding Skyscanner: How It Finds You the Best Flight Deals (and Why It Doesn’t Book Directly)

Skyscanner has become synonymous with finding cheap flights. But how exactly does this popular travel search engine work its magic? The answer lies in its role as a sophisticated comparison tool, not a booking agent. Unlike online travel agencies (OTAs) that hold inventory, Skyscanner acts as a powerful search engine, scouring the web for the best flight and accommodation deals from a vast network of airlines and travel providers.

Think of it like Google for flights. You input your desired destination, dates, and other preferences (like number of passengers and cabin class), and Skyscanner’s algorithms go to work. It combs through the databases of hundreds of airlines and travel agencies – both big and small – to compile a list of available options. The results displayed are not from Skyscanner’s own inventory; rather, they represent what’s available directly from the source.

This is a crucial point: Skyscanner doesn’t book your flights. When you find a flight you like, clicking on it redirects you directly to the airline’s website or the third-party booking agency’s site. You complete the booking process – including payment – entirely through that platform. This means Skyscanner acts solely as an intermediary, connecting you with the best deals without ever handling your personal information or payment details.

Transparency is key. Because you’re redirected to the provider, the price you see on Skyscanner is the price you pay. There are no hidden fees or unexpected charges tacked on during the booking process, something that can sometimes occur with OTAs. This direct booking process ensures complete transparency and empowers you with control over your travel arrangements.

However, this system also means Skyscanner doesn’t guarantee availability. Because it’s only showing what’s available in real-time on the various partner sites, the price and availability you see could change once you’re redirected. It’s therefore recommended to book as quickly as possible if you find a suitable option.

In conclusion, Skyscanner offers a valuable service by simplifying the flight search process. By acting as a comparison engine and redirecting you to the original source for booking, it maintains transparency, offers a wide range of options, and empowers travelers to find the best deals available on the market. Its strength lies in its comprehensive search capabilities and its commitment to connecting users directly with the providers, keeping the booking process clean and straightforward.