Is there a fee if you don't show up for a flight?

What Happens if You Don’t Show Up for a Flight?

In general, missed flights do not incur additional fees, unless a pattern of intentional non-attendance is detected. This practice, known as skiplagging, involves booking a flight with a connecting flight or destination that you have no intention of taking. The intent is to secure a discounted fare by booking only the initial leg of a multi-leg flight.

When a passenger engages in skiplagging, airlines may flag their behavior and impose penalties, such as:

• Cancellation of return flights: The airline may cancel subsequent flights booked on the same ticket.
• Blacklisting: The passenger may be placed on a blacklist, restricting future bookings with that airline.
• Fee collection: In rare cases, airlines may charge a no-show fee for passengers who fail to board their flight without providing prior notice.

It’s important to note that genuine cases of missed flights due to unforeseen circumstances, such as emergencies or health issues, are typically not subject to penalties. However, it’s advisable to contact the airline promptly to explain the situation and avoid any potential misunderstandings.

To avoid any unnecessary consequences, it’s always recommended to inform the airline in advance if you are unable to make your flight. Most airlines allow passengers to cancel flights through their website or mobile app, or by contacting their customer service department.