Is it illegal to do hidden city flights?

The concept of hidden city flights

Hidden city flights, also known as skiplagging, is a travel strategy where a passenger purchases a ticket to a cheaper destination with a layover at their actual desired destination, and then simply leaves the airport at the layover point instead of continuing on the connecting flight. This allows travelers to save money on airfare, especially in situations where it is cheaper to book a flight with a layover in a certain city rather than a direct flight to that city.

The legal implications

The legality of hidden city flights is a contentious issue. While the concept itself is not illegal, airlines often include clauses in their terms and conditions that expressly prohibit skiplagging. These clauses typically state that passengers must travel on all segments of their ticketed itinerary, and that failure to do so can result in the cancellation of the entire ticket, including any remaining segments.

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Airlines’ response

Several airlines have taken legal action against travelers who engage in hidden city flights, claiming that it is a violation of their terms and conditions and constitutes “fraudulent behavior”. In 2019, Lufthansa sued a passenger who took advantage of hidden city flights, arguing that the practice represents a breach of contract and seeking restitution for the difference in fare. The case was ultimately dismissed by a German court, but it sparked widespread debate about the legality of hidden city flights.

Legal standpoint

From a legal standpoint, the issue is not cut and dried. While airlines have the right to enforce their terms and conditions, the question of whether hidden city flights constitute a legal violation is more complex. Some argue that the practice is simply a savvy consumer decision, while others contend that it is a form of unfair gaming of the system.

The legality of hidden city flights is a grey area. While the concept itself is not inherently illegal, airlines have the right to enforce their terms and conditions and take action against passengers who engage in skiplagging. As such, travelers considering this strategy should be aware of the potential risks and consequences, and carefully weigh the cost savings against the potential legal implications.