What happens if you check in online and don't turn up?

Consequences of Skipping a Flight After Online Check-In

Online check-in is a convenient service that allows passengers to select their seats, print boarding passes, and avoid long lines at the airport. However, skipping a flight after online check-in can have significant consequences.

Penalty Fees

Most airlines impose a penalty fee on passengers who fail to show up for a flight after checking in online. This fee can be substantial, often amounting to the full cost of the ticket. The purpose of this fee is to discourage no-shows, which can disrupt airline schedules and result in lost revenue.

Impact on Flight Schedules

When a passenger skips a flight after online check-in, it creates a disruption in the airline’s flight schedule. The aircraft may have to wait for the passenger to board, or it may be forced to depart without them. This can lead to delays and cancellations, affecting other passengers as well.

Maximizing Revenue

Airlines rely on maximizing revenue to cover their operating costs and generate profits. By discouraging no-shows through penalty fees, airlines are able to protect their revenue streams. The absence of a passenger who has checked in online creates an empty seat, which could have been sold to another passenger.

Consequences for the Passenger

In addition to paying a penalty fee, passengers who skip a flight after online check-in may also face other consequences. For example, they may be placed on a no-fly list, preventing them from booking future flights with the airline.

Conclusion

Skipping a flight after online check-in is a serious offense that carries significant consequences. Airlines impose hefty penalty fees to discourage no-shows and protect their revenue. Passengers who fail to show up for a flight after checking in online should be aware of the potential consequences and make arrangements to cancel their flight in advance.