Do they charge you if you miss your flight?

Consequences of Missed Flights: Fare Forfeiture and Beyond

Missing a scheduled flight can be a frustrating experience for travelers. However, it’s important to be aware of the financial repercussions that may arise from this situation.

Fare Forfeiture

In most cases, passengers who miss their flights face fare forfeiture. This means that they lose the value of the unused ticket, regardless of the reason for missing the departure. However, exceptions may apply if the delay or cancellation was directly caused by the airline itself due to circumstances beyond the passenger’s control. In such cases, the airline may offer compensation or rebooking options.

Circumstantial Compensation

In some instances, passengers may be eligible for compensation or alternative arrangements, depending on the specific circumstances surrounding their missed flight. For example:

• Medical or family emergencies: If a passenger can provide documentation supporting a legitimate reason for missing their flight, the airline may waive fare forfeiture or offer a refund.
• Flight delays or cancellations: If the missed flight was caused by an airline-related delay or cancellation, passengers may be entitled to compensation or alternative travel arrangements.
• Airline mishandling: If the airline mishandles the passenger’s luggage or makes a booking error that results in a missed flight, the passenger may be eligible for compensation.

Airline Policies

It’s important to note that each airline has its own policies regarding missed flights. Some airlines may offer more flexible options for rebooking or compensation, while others may be more strict. Passengers should carefully review the terms and conditions of their tickets and contact the airline directly for specific information about their missed flight policies.

Conclusion

While fare forfeiture is the customary penalty for missed flights, there may be exceptions and opportunities for compensation depending on the circumstances and the policies of the airline involved. Passengers should be aware of their rights and responsibilities when it comes to missed flights to avoid unnecessary financial losses or inconvenience.