Can airlines stop you from skiplagging?

Can Airlines Prevent Skiplagging?

Skiplagging, the practice of purchasing a plane ticket with an unintended layover and disembarking at the layover city instead of the final destination, is a clever way to save money on airfare. However, airlines are determined to stop this practice, as it violates their terms of service and can lead to revenue loss.

Airline Policies Against Skiplagging

Most airlines strictly prohibit skiplagging. Hidden city ticketing, as it is also known, is considered a violation of their terms of service. Passengers who engage in skiplagging may face penalties, including:

• Account suspension: Airlines can suspend the accounts of passengers who repeatedly engage in skiplagging.
• Future flight cancellations: Airlines may cancel future flights booked by passengers who have a history of skiplagging.
• Baggage fees: Airlines may charge additional fees for checked bags on flights where passengers skip the final destination.

How Airlines Detect Skiplagging

Airlines use various methods to detect skiplagging, including:

• Baggage tracking: Airlines track the checked baggage of passengers and can identify those who disembark at a layover city instead of their final destination.
• Boarding pass checks: Airlines may check boarding passes at connecting flights to ensure that passengers are continuing to their final destination.
• Data analysis: Airlines analyze passenger booking patterns and may identify suspicious itineraries that indicate potential skiplagging.

Booking in Good Faith

To avoid any issues with skiplagging, it is essential to book flights in good faith. This means purchasing a ticket for the destination you intend to travel to, even if it is more expensive than a hidden city ticket.

Booking in good faith not only prevents penalties from airlines but also ensures a smooth and hassle-free travel experience. It is always best to be transparent with your travel plans and abide by the terms of service of the airline you are flying with.