What happens if I book a flight and don't go?

Consequences of Booking a Flight and Not Showing Up

When making travel plans, it’s essential to consider the implications of failing to show up for a booked flight. While flight cancellations and reschedules are sometimes unavoidable, missing a flight without prior notice can have significant consequences.

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

If you fail to show up for a booked flight without informing the airline in advance, your booking will be canceled, and the ticket cost will be forfeited. This means that you will not receive a refund or credit for the unused ticket.

No-Show Penalty

In addition to losing the ticket fare, you may also incur a no-show penalty. This penalty is a fee charged by the airline to cover the inconvenience caused by your absence. The amount of the penalty varies depending on the airline and the type of ticket you purchased.

Consequences for Future Travel

Repeated no-shows can damage your reputation with the airline and make it more difficult to book flights in the future. Airlines may restrict or even ban passengers who have a history of no-shows.

How to Avoid No-Show Penalties

To avoid the consequences of no-shows, it’s crucial to:

• Inform the airline of any flight cancellations or reschedules as soon as possible.
• Check in online or at the airport within the specified time frame.
• Make sure you have all necessary travel documents, including your passport, visa, and boarding pass.
• Allow ample time for transportation and unexpected delays.

Conclusion

Booking a flight is a serious commitment, and it’s important to understand the consequences of failing to show up for your flight. By adhering to the airline’s policies and notifying them of any changes to your travel plans, you can avoid no-show penalties and ensure a smooth travel experience.