Inside Scoop
Are there any little-known details that can make your next trip more comfortable and hassle-free? Obviously! Behind the polished smiles and sleek planes, airlines operate in a world full of strategies that'll surprise even the most seasoned travelers.
Your Boarding Pass Contains More Information Than You Think
The barcode on your boarding pass holds personal data, like your name, travel itinerary, frequent flyer number, and booking reference. This information can be easily extracted using online barcode readers. Avoid sharing images of your boarding pass on social media and dispose of it securely after your journey.
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An SSSS Code Means That Your Luggage Will Be Inspected
Seeing an SSSS or S code printed on your boarding pass means that you've been chosen for an additional security check. Your carry-on and checked luggage will be inspected more thoroughly before you board. The selection is mostly random, but it's nothing you should worry about.
Definitelynotdodgy, CC BY-SA 3.0, Wikimedia Commons
Book Directly Through An Airline's Website
While third-party booking platforms might offer competitive prices, booking directly with the airline often provides better customer service and eligibility for additional perks or loyalty points. By booking directly, you can streamline any necessary changes or cancellations and potentially access exclusive deals or upgrades.
AA.com Online Check-in by American Airlines
You Can Receive Cash If Your Flight Is Canceled
Stay informed about your rights to ensure you receive appropriate compensation without unnecessary delays. In some countries, if your flight is canceled or significantly delayed due to issues within the airline's control, you're entitled to compensation, which may include cash payments.
Complaining About Poor Service Can Earn You Free Miles
Airlines value customer feedback and often offer compensation, such as bonus miles or travel vouchers, to address service shortcomings. Submitting a well-articulated complaint can lead to such compensation. So, voice your concerns respectfully, but make sure you don't get too aggressive.
You Might Secure A Better Voucher If Your Flight Is Overbooked
When flights are overbooked, airlines seek volunteers to take later flights to offer compensation in return. Don't accept the first voucher offered, as negotiation results in more favorable terms, such as higher-value vouchers or additional perks. Understand your rights and turn an inconvenience into an opportunity.
You Can Get Refunds For Add-Ons You Don't Use
If you've purchased extras like checked bags or Wi-Fi but didn't end up using them, you can request a refund. Airlines may not automatically offer this, but most have policies allowing refunds for unused services. You can save money by reclaiming the cost of extras but always keep receipts.
Delays Can Qualify You For Food And Accommodation Vouchers
For significant delays, many airlines offer food or hotel vouchers. However, they rarely advertise this upfront, so you'll need to ask. It's always a stressful situation, but you can avoid unexpected expenses during a delay by knowing when you're entitled to vouchers.
Airlines May Waive Change Fees If You Call At The Right Time
You don't have to pay extra if you need to change or cancel your flight. Some airlines will allow you to do this within 24 hours of booking without incurring a fee. Moreover, companies usually loosen change policies and waivers during inclement weather or major disruptions.
You Can Avoid Baggage Fees By Using Airline Credit Cards
Most airline-branded credit cards cancel baggage fees for cardholders and their companions when flying with that airline. This benefit is often valid even on basic economy tickets. Using these cards allows you to save significantly on checked-bag fees, especially if you're a frequent traveler.
Pilots Can Improve Your Flight Comfort If You Speak Up
If the cabin is too cold, noisy, or turbulent, flight attendants can relay concerns to the pilots. Pilots can adjust cabin temperature and make smoother altitude adjustments. A more comfortable flight experience by politely voicing concerns. Don't hesitate to share your needs with the crew—they're there to help.
Maksim Denisenko, Shutterstock
You Can Get A Refund For A Fare Drop After Booking
Did the price drop after you booked your ticket? Some airlines can offer travel credits or even a refund, although this policy isn't announced. Use tools like fare trackers to monitor changes and contact the airline promptly if you notice a lower price.
Red-Eye Flights Are Often Less Crowded
As you've probably expected, late-night or early-morning flights are generally less popular and, therefore, less crowded. Known as red-eye flights because people hardly sleep, booking one can mean a quieter cabin and more available seats. You can actually enjoy a less stressful travel experience with fewer passengers.
John Taggart, CC BY-SA 2.0, Wikimedia Commons
Gate Agents Have Discretion For Upgrades
Gate agents have the authority to upgrade passengers, often at their discretion. Being polite and asking (respectfully!) can sometimes increase your chances of receiving an upgrade for free. Always approach gate agents kindly and professionally, and you can instantly improve your travel experience.
Delta News Hub, CC BY 2.0, Wikimedia Commons
Lost Bags Are Often Found Quickly
Contrary to popular belief, most lost luggage is recovered within 48 hours. Airlines use sophisticated tracking systems to locate missing bags and will deliver them directly to your destination or home once found. Always file a report immediately and include detailed descriptions of your luggage.
Jaromir Chalabala, Shutterstock
You Can Skip Long Lines With Airline Apps
Most airlines' mobile apps offer features like mobile check-in and real-time updates about delays or gate changes. These apps can help you bypass long lines and avoid unnecessary waiting. They can also help you manage all your travel plans as conveniently as possible.
Don't Board Last If You Have A Bulky Carry-On
While many prefer to avoid the crowds, you should arrive early if you have a bulky carry-on. Overhead storage space is limited, and it's allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. Unless you don't mind having your bag stored away from your seat, it's best to move fast.
Mila Supinskaya Glashchenko, Shutterstock
Food Is Packed With Extra Spices Because Of Cabin Pressure
Do you complain about the taste of airplane food? The low humidity and reduced air pressure in an airplane cabin dull your sense of taste and smell by up to 30%. To compensate, airline meals are seasoned with more salt, sugar, and spices than food served on the ground.
Pick A Seat In The Middle Of The Cabin To Avoid Massive Turbulence
Turbulence is usually felt most intensely near the front and back of the plane. The middle, especially over the wings, is more stable because it's closer to the aircraft's center of gravity. So, if you're an anxious traveler, choose a seat in the middle to enjoy a smoother flight.
YAKOBCHUK VIACHESLAV, Shutterstock
Pilots And Co-Pilots Eat Different Meals
Did you know that pilots and co-pilots are required to eat different meals? This rule is followed to reduce the risk of both being affected by food poisoning. It ensures one is always healthy and able to fly the plane in case of an emergency.
Airlines Sometimes Delay Flights To Combine Routes
If two flights are underbooked, some airlines may delay one to consolidate passengers into another. This reduces costs for the airline but can lead to long waits for travelers on the delayed flight. If you suspect this is happening, ask if there are alternative flights you can be rebooked on.
Most Seats Don't Fully Recline For Safety Reasons
Seats near exit rows or the back of the plane have limited reclining to ensure passengers can evacuate quickly during an emergency. While this design prioritizes safety, it can affect comfort during long flights. You can always check the seating chart when booking to avoid non-reclining seats.
SuperJet International, CC BY-SA 2.0, Wikimedia Commons
You Can Check For Cheaper Upgrades At Check-In
Airlines often offer discounted upgrades to premium seats during online check-in or at the gate if these seats haven't been sold. These last-minute deals can be significantly cheaper than booking a premium seat in advance. Keep an eye out for upgrade offers when checking in.
Janicka, CC BY-SA 3.0, Wikimedia Commons
Cabin Lights Are Dimmed For Emergency Preparedness
During takeoff and landing at night, cabin lights are dimmed to help your eyes adjust to the outside darkness. This ensures passengers can evacuate quickly in case of an emergency. Nevertheless, if the dimmed lights bother you, bring a personal reading light to stay comfortable.
You Can Request Special Meals For Free
Many airline companies offer a variety of special meal options at no extra cost. These meals are typically prepared separately and served earlier than standard meals. You can enjoy a meal catered to your dietary needs by requesting it while booking your ticket or well before your flight.
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