Hidden City Ticketing: Legality, Consequences, and Contract Violations in Air Travel
In the digital age of budget-friendly travel, hidden city ticketing has become an enticing option for budget-conscious travelers. However, is it legal to buy a one-way plane ticket with a stopover and then remain at the stopover, not boarding for the final destination? This practice, often referred to as 'hidden city ticketing,' presents a grey area of legality that needs to be understood in the context of airline policies and legal consequences.
Understanding the Legal and Contractual Aspects
When it comes to purchasing a one-way ticket with a stopover, the legality of remaining at the stopover station largely depends on the initial purpose of your trip. If the stopover was merely a transit point with no plans to enter or stay in the country, you would need to reclaim your baggage. However, if the stopover is more than just a transit point and you plan to 'enter the country,' you will need to hold a valid visa.
The ultimate question: Is it legal to remain at the stopover and not board for the final destination? Technically, the practice is not illegal, but it is a violation of the contract of carriage with the airline. Airlines often do not mind people purchasing a ticket and then not using the subsequent leg of their flight, as the cheapest passenger to transport is one who paid full fare but does not take a seat.
What Are the Consequences?
Hidden city ticketing, while seemingly cost-effective, can lead to severe consequences. According to most airlines' terms and conditions, it is explicitly forbidden. For example, from Alaska Airlines' Contract of Carriage, Rule 7, Section E, highlights the prohibited practices:
“Use of flight coupons from two or more different Tickets issued at round-trip fares for the purpose of circumventing applicable tariff rules...”
“The purchase and use of round-trip Tickets for the purpose of one-way travel only...”
The terms state that fares apply for travel only between the points for which they are published. Tickets must not be purchased and used at fares from an initial departure point on the ticket that is before the passenger's actual point of origin of travel, or to a more distant point than the passenger's actual destination being traveled. This practice is known as 'hidden city ticketing.'
These actions constitute a breach of the contract between you and the airline and, in law, are considered a civil tort at a minimum. Airlines have successfully sued individuals who have employed this tactic. In most cases, the worst that can happen is the passenger forfeits any frequent flyer credits for the trip, and for more egregious violators, their frequent flyer accounts and any accumulated benefits may be suspended. Severely repeat offenders might even face a ban from flying on that airline.
Why Is It Called 'Hidden City Ticketing'?
One-way ticket purchases with a stopover and plans to remain at the stopover are often referred to as 'hidden city ticketing' due to the hidden nature of the stopover. Passengers essentially pay for a round-trip ticket but only take the one-way portion of the journey, making the destination city a 'hidden' stopover.
This practice has been around for many years, but it has gained more attention in recent years as more people search for cost-effective travel options. However, the legal and contractual implications are significant and should be considered before pursuing this type of travel tactic.
Conclusion
Hidden city ticketing is not illegal but is a clear violation of airline contracts and terms of service. While it may seem like a clever way to save money, it poses multiple risks, including legal consequences, loss of frequent flyer benefits, and potential bans from certain airlines. Travelers should carefully weigh the benefits and risks before engaging in this practice.
Remember, the ultimate responsibility lies with the traveler to read and understand the terms and conditions of their ticket purchase. Choosing the right travel option is crucial for a smooth and enjoyable journey.