Hidden-city ticketing: the risks, in plain English

Why airlines restrict it

Most airlines' contracts of carriage say you must fly the full itinerary you bought. Airlines have also taken legal action against companies that promote the practice. Whether or not a particular airline enforces it, the rules are on their side.

What can happen to you

• It only works on a one-way ticket or the last leg of a trip. If you skip a segment, the airline cancels the rest of the ticket, including any return flight.
• You can travel with carry-on luggage only. Checked bags go to the final ticketed city, and a bag that is gate-checked because the cabin is full will too.
• If your first flight is disrupted, the airline may reroute you through a different city, which can remove the stop you wanted.
• You need the travel documents and visa for the final ticketed destination, even if you never go there.
• Airlines may cancel the ticket, remove frequent-flyer miles, close a loyalty account, refuse future sales, or ask you to pay the fare difference.

If you are weighing it anyway

• Understand that you would be knowingly breaking the airline's terms and could lose the whole ticket and your loyalty account.
• Never attach a loyalty number you value to the ticket.
• Avoid it on trips where missing the trip would be costly.
• Compare it against legitimate options first: nearby airports, different dates, split tickets with protection, or other carriers.

How SplitWing shows it

SplitWing lists hidden-city pricing as one modeled option so you can see what it is, and labels it with its risks. It does not recommend it, and many travelers choose never to use it. It is your decision and your responsibility.