Airline Tickets Info
Airline Tickets: Questions and Answers
Below is a list of frequently asked questions that can help you take the stress out of booking your next airline ticket online.
Frequently Asked Questions About Buying Airline Tickets Online
I searched for low airfares online and found several low cost flights, but when I tried to buy the tickets the price was higher. Why was the price I paid higher than the other low fares I saw online?
Often times when you search for low airfares, the airlines will provide data on all flights that meet your search criteria. But in some cases the seats on the flights shown are already sold out, so that only the other higher fair seats are left available when you try to purchase.
When looking for low prices airfare online, what are the things to watch out for?
One of the most important things to remember when searching for online airfares is that discounted tickets will most likely have restrictions placed on them. These restrictions may include no refund clauses if you miss your flight, limitations on the times you can leave and return, and other restrictions. Be sure that you understand any restrictions prior to making your purchase.
When I purchase an airline ticket online, will I be able to make changes to my reservations if I need to?
This depends on the provider of the tickets, and on what restrictions they have placed on the sales. In some cases, discounted air tickets cannot be changes without penalty. In some cases the tickets are non-refundable if you miss the flight or need to change the arrangements.
How can I tell what restrictions are placed on a discounted airline ticket?
When you look at ticket prices online, any restrictions will be displayed with the ticket prices and /or in the booking process before you pay for the tickets. Be sure to read the restrictions carefully. A higher priced ticket will carry fewer or no restrictions and may suit your need better in case you need to make changes to your plans after purchase.
What is an E-Ticket for air travel and how do you use one?
Most airlines today will sometimes issue paperless ‘E Tickets’. These are virtual tickets that use the order confirmation number and your driver’s license as confirmation when you get to the airline check-in desk. You can usually use the flight number if you have lost your confirmation number. Sometimes the airline will ask to see the credit card that you used to make your purchase. With E tickets, you don’t need to have a paper ticket at all.
If I don’t feel comfortable using an E ticket, can I request traditional paper tickets instead?
Most online air travel providers will be able to issue you a paper ticket if you prefer that over an E Ticket. The only thing is that you will probably have to pay shipping charges on the delivery of your paper tickets.
When purchasing tickets online, can I have the tickets sent to me at work?
When you order airline tickets online and pay by credit card, you will usually be required to have the tickets sent to the same address as your credit card statements are sent to. This protects the seller from fraudulent orders using stolen credit cards.
When I look for airline tickets online, will I be able to redeem my frequent flyer miles?
Frequent Flyer miles may only be redeemed when making your travel arrangements with the airlines own reservation systems. You cannot redeem them when purchasing from a travel agent or online air travel website.
Can I purchase an airline ticket online for travel tickets that depart in two days?
Many of the online ticket sellers have limitations on selling tickets for travel in fewer than 4 days. In some cases they don’t sell them at all, while others will have a special way of handling last minute travel orders. Some sites have last minute specials as well.
Should I confirm my air travel arrangement that I made online?
Yes, you should always confirm your air travel reservations with the air carrier a couple of days after you made them, and again a couple of days prior to departure.
Consumer Safety and Information
Consumer Protection - airconsumer.ost.dot.gov
Handles and reports air travel problems and complaints, offers aviation travel tips and publications, lists recent airline service.
Domestic Flights - ostpxweb.dot.gov
Consumer Reports for Domestic Airline Fares.
Airline Fares - www.bls.gov
How BLS Measures Price Change for Airline Fares in the Consumer Price Index.
Airlines and Airports - www.bts.gov
Provides information on Air Traffic, Cancellations, Flight Delays, Passengers and Fees.
Travel Assistance - www.tsa.gov
TSA protects the nation's transportation systems to ensure freedom of movement for people and commerce.
Recommended Airline Tickets Websites
Travelocity - provides online booking for air, car, hotel, cruise, and vacation reservations.
Expedia.com online travel agency providing leisure services in the United States, Europe, and Canada.
Best Western International offers vacations to a variety of destinations including Florida, California, and Europe.
Airline Tickets Sites on the Internet
Orbitz - http://www.orbitz.com
Provides customers with access to the broadest choice of air fares and some of the lowest prices for flights, hotels, and rental cars.
Other Tickets Sites on the Internet
Platinum Tickets- www.platinumtickets.com
Ticket broker since 1996 providing tickets for all major events, Sports, Concerts, Theater, Las Vegas and Broadway event tickets.
Travel Resources
Airlines 800 Numbers
Power Current Fishing Reports
Visit our Shopping Guides and Credit Card Fraud sections for useful information.
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