The Pros and Cons of Calling Airlines Directly for Tickets

The Pros and Cons of Calling Airlines Directly for Tickets

When it comes to booking airline tickets, there are different routes you can take – either directly through the airline or through a third-party booking site. While third-party sites offer a range of options and pricing, some people prefer calling airlines directly for their ticketing needs. In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of calling airlines directly for tickets.

Pros:
1. Personalized service: When you call an airline directly, you get to speak to a customer service representative who can assist you with your booking. This personalized service can be particularly helpful if you have special requests or need to make changes to your itinerary.

2. Access to unpublished deals: Sometimes airlines offer unpublished deals that are only available to customers who call directly. These deals can potentially save you money on your ticket prices.

3. Quicker resolution of issues: If you face any issues with your booking, such as a cancelled flight or missed connection, calling the airline directly can help you resolve the issue more quickly than going through a third-party site.

4. Loyalty programs: If you’re part of an airline’s loyalty program, calling the airline directly can help you earn and use your points more effectively.

Cons:
1. Longer wait times: Calling the airline directly can mean longer wait times than booking through a third-party site. Particularly during peak travel seasons, airlines can have long waiting times to speak with a representative.

2. Limited options: Depending on the airline, you may have limited options when it comes to selecting flights and seat assignments. This restricted selection could mean that you end up paying more for your ticket than you would through a third-party site.

3. No price comparison: When you book through a third-party site, you can compare prices across multiple airlines to find the best deal. When calling an airline directly, you only have access to that airline’s pricing, which may not be the best option for your budget.

4. Difficulty in making changes: If you need to make changes to your booking, such as changing your travel dates or itinerary, calling the airline directly can be more difficult than using a third-party site.

Conclusion:
Overall, there are pros and cons to calling airlines directly for tickets. If you value personalized service and have specific requests or needs, calling the airline directly may be the best option for you. However, if you’re looking for the best deal and have flexibility in your travel plans, booking through a third-party site may be a better option. It’s ultimately up to each traveler to decide which route works best for their individual needs.