Is Now the Time to Book Airline Tickets Amid COVID-19?

Airlines are currently slashing ticket prices for future flights during the COVID-19 lockdowns; however, air travel expert John Walton explains why now isn’t the time to book your next flight.

Currently, it is not an ideal time to travel—not only due to the ongoing restrictions but also because airlines worldwide are either halting operations entirely or maintaining only crucial routes. These routes often assist with repatriating citizens without the necessity for charter flights.

However, as we approach the traditional peak flying season, fares during this northern hemisphere summer are at an all-time low. Airlines may also waive change fees, enticing individuals towards travel booking to alleviate isolation-driven impulses. It’s understandable that many feel the urge to plan a getaway right now.

So is Now the Right Time to Buy Cheap Airline Tickets?

No, now is definitively not the time for booking flights. Rather, it’s advisable to focus on the thought of future travel goals instead of making concrete plans. For instance, think it through: “I would like to go to X when this is all over,” or “Let’s visit family once health experts deem it safe.”

It is prudent to wait at least a month—preferably longer—after your local quarantine or lockdown measures have been lifted before considering travel arrangements.

Uncertainties regarding the lifting of restrictions linger, making it challenging to determine future travel plans. Positive signs from regions such as China show decreasing infection rates due to strict quarantine measures; however, the long-term outlook remains unclear.

Going forward, it’s likely that many airlines may encounter dire financial straits or even cease operations altogether. Consequently, the potential for ticket cancellation becomes very real, making it crucial to exercise caution.

Currently, it’s more sensible to redirect any travel funds into savings as uncertainties prevail regarding when travel will become viable again.

But What About Change Fee Waivers?

Essentially, purchasing a flight now equates to providing an airline with an interest-free loan, akin to buying a gift card. While some airlines may waive change fees in case of cancellations, it’s critical to scrutinize the fine print. Many of these policies stipulate that travelers must cover any fare differences between the original cheap flight and any rescheduled flights.

There are no assurances that airlines will continue flying to your chosen destination. Expect further cuts in routes as this situation evolves. Additionally, securing travel insurance under these circumstances may prove futile, as many travel policies generally discourage travel during times of global crisis.

In conclusion, it’s essential to remain cautious. Stay home, limit outings, maintain health guidelines, and focus on dreaming about your next travel adventure. We’re all in this together.

The novel coronavirus (Covid-19) is now a global pandemic. Find out what this means for travelers.