Simon Calder reveals the truth about skiplagging tickets

In recent months, a travel technique known as skiplagging has garnered attention among travelers seeking to save on airfare costs. Skiplagging, also referred to as hidden-city flying or throwaway ticketing, involves booking a flight from point A to point C with a layover at point B, but only traveling to point B. This can often result in lower fares than booking a direct flight between points A and B. The phenomenon occurs because airlines adjust prices based on passenger demand, leading to discrepancies in fare costs for different routing options. Passengers are generally willing to pay more for non-stop flights between major cities, while less-popular connecting routes often see reduced prices to attract travelers. This pricing structure allows savvy travelers to take advantage of the lower fare by booking a flight they do not fully intend to complete. In Calder's experience, he found that a flight to Dublin through Manchester cost significantly less than a direct flight to Atlanta. The French airline involved in this case chose not to pursue fare differences, highlighting the ongoing complexities within the airline pricing model. As the travel industry continues adapting to challenges, such methods raise questions about the moral implications of exploiting fare inconsistencies. Additionally, travelers must navigate evolving security measures at airports, with advancements like new scanners still underway, expected to be fully operational by 2025. These updates are part of a larger initiative to improve travel safety, yet they also present challenges for passengers as they adapt to changing regulations. Overall, skiplagging remains a viable option for budget-conscious travelers, illustrating the interplay between airline pricing strategies and consumer behavior.