PHOENIX, Ariz. — As the holiday season approaches, many travelers are scouring airline websites for the best deals on flights. However, when the desired destination is sold out or exorbitantly priced, some travelers turn to a controversial travel hack known as skiplagging to save money. Skiplagging, also referred to as hidden city ticketing, involves purchasing a ticket for a flight with a layover and disembarking at the layover airport instead of completing the journey to the final destination.
The concept of skiplagging is simple yet divisive. Travelers might find a cheaper ticket for a longer route, such as a Phoenix-Orlando flight with a layover in Atlanta, which costs less than a direct Phoenix-Atlanta flight. This method is particularly useful when direct flights to a specific destination are sold out. However, skiplagging is not without risks, and airlines vehemently oppose this practice.
Major airlines like American Airlines, Southwest Airlines, United Airlines, and Delta Air Lines explicitly prohibit skiplagging in their contracts of carriage. These airlines define skiplagging as purchasing a ticket without intending to fly all legs of the journey to gain lower fares. While skiplagging is not illegal, travelers who get caught can face severe consequences, including having their tickets canceled, being refused boarding, not receiving a refund, and even being banned from future flights with the airline.
One of the main reasons airlines frown upon skiplagging is the lost revenue it causes. Airlines operate on a “hub-and-spoke” system, routing flights through central hubs before reaching smaller airports. Skiplagging disrupts this system, leading to reduced competition on certain routes and potentially driving up airfares. Additionally, the practice can cause flight delays, as airlines may struggle to locate passengers who have departed at the connecting airport.
Skiplagging has faced legal challenges from airlines in the past, but with mixed results. In one instance, United Airlines sued Skiplagged.com and its founder for trademark infringement, but the suit was eventually dismissed. Similarly, Lufthansa sued a passenger who used skiplagging, seeking the difference in fare for the intended itinerary. However, the case was ultimately dropped.
Before considering skiplagged flights, travelers should weigh the risks carefully. Skiplagging is against airlines’ rules, and if caught, travelers may face significant financial consequences and future travel restrictions. Moreover, checking bags can complicate matters, as luggage will be sent to the final destination on the itinerary, not the connecting airport.
In conclusion, while skiplagging may seem like an enticing way to save money on airfare, travelers should be aware of the potential risks and repercussions involved. It remains a divisive travel hack, with airlines vigorously opposing the practice to protect their revenue and flight operations. As the holiday season approaches, travelers should stay informed and make wise decisions when planning their flights.
