Choosing an Airline is easier when you are informed and confident
If you've completed steps one and two, you now have a select short-list of excellent airlines that meet your personal needs. It's time to go shopping.
Actually choosing your airline is probably the most exciting part of the buying process, but there is a little work remaining if you want to maximize your purchase potential.
You know what you need and what airlines meet those needs, but you still have to decide where you'll buy the airline ticket, and who from. If you do have a couple of airlines on a final short-list, you'll want to do some additional comparison shopping, so you can find the best deal. You also need to know what kind of final checks to make, and what questions you should ask before you sign on the dotted line or hand over that hard-earned cash.
Tip: Confirm what the airlines policy is for check-in times. Do they have online check-in up to 24 hours ahead of the flight? Do they have a self-service or curb side check-in? These items will help you avoid waiting in long lines with your luggage.
How will you purchase the ticket?
Buyers now have a number of choices when it comes to buying airline tickets. These can be broken down into two major options - in person or by remote purchase. Some people aren't comfortable with remote purchase options such as the internet, and prefer to buy directly from an actual store, either a travel agent or through the airline directly.
Remote Purchase:
- Internet - airline, online travel agent
In Person:
- Retail - travel agency, airline ticket office
Each option has different advantages and disadvantages, and these may be influenced by your individual taste and previous buying experience. For instance, staff at travel agencies can usually offer the most knowledgeable advice, but on the other hand the prices are often more attractive online. Experienced salespeople can be invaluable if you are still unsure about whether an airline has an impeccable safety record or is well know for cancellation of flights.
Buying online can give you excellent opportunities to shop around and compare discounted prices. Carefully weigh up the pros and cons to determine which option is most suitable for you.
Choosing a booking agent
Many factors have an influence when deciding which airline to travel with, and these need to be weighed up; you may have a tight budget, in which case the booking agent who offers the best prices will be most attractive to you. Alternatively, you may prefer to deal with an agent who has excellent customer service and employs knowledgeable, friendly and helpful staff. The major factors that need to be considered are presented below:
Choosing an agent Checklist
- Reputation - time established, fair dealing, complaints record, good name, reviews
- Price - discounts, specials, less for cash, bonus schemes, rebates
- Sweeteners - some sellers are more likely to add items to 'sweeten' the deal
- Extras - check what accessories or other extras are offered with the product
- Customer service - product knowledge, at point-of-sale, after service
- Support - troubleshooting and advice
Other considerations:
- Where possible look for members of professional associations or bodies
- A prior relationship with a company can be a big advantage
Tip: Does the airline charge for flight or passenger name changes? Some airlines charge a small fee for these types of changes. But, some airlines charge a substantial portion of the ticket price.
Once you have factored in all these different considerations, choosing who to travel with from often comes down simply to your personal preference. It is important to buy from a reputable, reliable agent, as this offers you the most protection if something goes wrong with the flight or the airline.
Tip: Online forums, blogs and review sites are excellent sources for finding out a seller's reputation for good service and fair dealing.
The final decision
There is often little to choose from between airlines and agents, and small things can make a real difference to your pocket and the satisfaction you gain in your purchase. It's a good idea to anticipate any issues associated with the airline that might arise either immediately after buying an airline ticket, or in the time you will be using - and enjoying - the airline's services.
Many of these issues will only become significant if there is some kind of problem, but it's a good idea to investigate before you make your final decision. Ask the agent about guarantees, as these can vary between agents - some tickets may be transferable but will incur a fee, for instance.
Purchase and Aftersales Checklist
- Money back guarantee - unlimited, limited, time frame, what is covered
- Ticket Shipping - method, fees, estimated timeframe
- Ticket Insurance - for shipping, delivery; cost and exclusions
Tip: Find out what they allow for baggage size and weight. Some airlines are very specific about the size and weight of carry-on luggage as well. So, it is always best to make sure that you can fit their overall requirements.
Choosing an airline can be an enjoyable and rewarding experience. Once you've worked your way through all three steps of the
Buyz123 three step guide you can choose exactly the right airline for your needs.
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