What happens if I purposely miss a flight?

Consequences of Intentionally Missing a Flight

When planning a trip, unexpected events can sometimes disrupt travel plans. In such cases, intentionally missing a flight may be a necessary option. However, travelers who choose to do so should be aware of the potential consequences.

Lost Ticket Fare

The most common consequence of intentionally missing a flight is the loss of the ticket fare. Most airlines adhere to a strict “no-show” policy, which means that passengers who do not board their scheduled flight will forfeit the cost of their ticket. This applies even if the ticket was non-refundable.

No Additional Penalties

In general, airlines do not impose additional penalties for intentionally missing a single flight. However, if a pattern of no-shows is established, some carriers may take further action. This could include:

• Blocking seat reservations: The airline may prevent the passenger from making future bookings until they resolve the issue.
• Imposing a “no-fly” period: In severe cases, the airline may temporarily ban the passenger from flying with them.

Exceptions

There are a few exceptions to the general rule of lost ticket fares and no additional penalties. In some cases, airlines may waive the no-show policy if the passenger can provide a valid reason for missing the flight, such as:

• Medical emergency: A doctor’s note or other proof of a medical condition that prevented the passenger from traveling.
• Flight cancellation or delay: If the airline cancels or delays the flight, passengers may be able to rebook or obtain a refund.
• Bereavement: The death of a close family member or other unforeseen circumstances that make travel impossible.

Advice for Passengers

Travelers who intentionally miss a flight should always contact the airline as soon as possible. While the ticket fare is likely lost, the airline may be able to make adjustments to future bookings or provide assistance with rebooking. Additionally, passengers should be aware of the airline’s specific no-show policy and the potential consequences before making a decision to miss a flight.