How Far Ahead to Book Flights?

We have always heard that the first one gets the best deal, haven't we? More or less, we believe the same when it comes to book our flight tickets. Sadly, it is not always true in the aviation sector. How far in advance should we book our flights to receive the greatest deal? To find out how the airline price system operates and whether is it better to buy flights early, let's take an in-depth look.

How does the Flight Pricing Structure Work?

The price structure used by the airline industry is based on dynamic pricing. It is a data-driven strategy that is challenging to fully understand. This method also known as demand-based pricing, allows airlines to change ticket rates in response to market competition, consumer behavior, demand, and the amount of time left till departure. It makes sure that the appropriate seat is sold to the right consumer at the right time and price. Through this airlines aim to optimize their profits. This is the main reason behind airfare fluctuations, and this dynamic pricing approach makes it difficult to predict the least expensive days to book flights.

When do Airlines open their Booking Window?

Airlines open their booking window way ahead so you can plan your trips in advance to avoid last-minute rush. It also gives them time to understand market demand and modify the flight fares accordingly. Here, I have listed some of the major airlines and how far ahead they open their booking window.

• Air Canada: 354 days ahead
• Alaska Airlines: 330 days ahead
• Allegiant Air: About 6–9 months ahead*
• American Airlines: 331 days ahead
• Delta Air Lines: 331 days ahead
• Hawaiian Airlines: 330 days ahead
• JetBlue Airways: About 6–10 months ahead*
• Southwest Airlines: About 7–8 months ahead*
• United Airlines: 11 months ahead*

*The exact date may vary; so, keep an eye on the airline's official website to know about the opening window.

Is it Better to Book Flights Early or Not

As we have discussed earlier, the market of the airline industry is very dynamic, and multiple factors influence the flight fare. This makes the difficult to give a straightforward answer to the question- is it better to buy a flight early? However, we are clear about one fact- the extreme end is never a good option. Buying an airline ticket as soon as the booking window is open, or buying a ticket a few hours before the flight departure, both are an expensive option.It is true that predicting the least expensive days to book flights is not easy, but many travel experts have advised that booking during the opposite season is beneficial: for the busiest summer months, consider the Christmas holiday; for Christmas travel, consider the Fourth of July.

Advantages of Booking Flights in Advance

Let's consider all the advantages of booking flights in advance because being spontaneous is not always a better option.

• More options: A greater range of airlines, travel times, and price points will be available for you to choose from. Even if you are flying with one of the best airlines in the world, other factors affect a successful journey.
• No last-minute rush: Make your travel plans with a relaxed attitude instead of in a hurried, unpleasant state to battle for tickets at the last minute. Plan ahead and avoid worrying right up until the day of your journey if you have a significant function to attend.
• Plan your trip more effectively and consider all of your options: You will have lots of time at your disposal. So, you may spend more time studying potential places and creating various itineraries.

Disadvantages of booking flights in advance

There are certain disadvantages also with the advance booking of flight, let's check them out:

• Last-minute deal: Sometimes Airlines offer last-minute deals on specific flights. If you have booked your ticket earlier, then you may lose the opportunity to get a cheaper ticket. Thus, sometimes it is not better to buy flights early.
• Change of plan: In case you have a non-refundable ticket that you have booked in advance and due to unforeseen circumstances your plan is changed, you have to pay a penalty fee.

When do Airlines Open the Award Booking Ticket Window?

If you're buying your tickets with cash, it's preferable to avoid clicking the "buy" button as soon as the booking window opens, but award tickets are the exact opposite. Your greatest chance of obtaining an award ticket is to act quickly when the opportunity for award seats opens, as there are seldom many available on any one flight, particularly in premium classes.When it comes to US Airlines, the award ticket availability coincides with the ticket purchase window opening. Be prepared to click "buy" on an award ticket as soon as possible because they can only have a small number of seats available right away and there is no surety that more will be added later.

How Far Ahead to Book Domestic Flights?

The burning question is still not answered- How far ahead to book domestic flights? Well, it totally depends on your preference. However, the least expensive days to book domestic flights are around 1-3 months ahead of your departure date. If you are not going during the festival, this is the ideal time to reserve domestic flights. By purchasing tickets one to three months in advance, you can avoid last moment rush and make sure you don't miss any deals.

How Far Ahead to Book International Flights?

If you are booking for international flights then the rules are not the same as the domestic ones. You need to start planning earlier. You will obtain the greatest travel discount if you book your international flights at least two to eight months before your trip. Getting the best flight is crucial for a comfortable trip, especially on long-haul trips.

Tips to Get a Good Travel Deal by Booking at the Right Time

Every traveler finds it enjoyable to find the greatest flight deals. There are certain general guidelines you may follow to steer clear of expensive flights, even if prices are subject to change.

• By booking flights directly via the airlines' website.
• Choose the route which is in demand, because you will get many options and comparatively less price.
• Try to travel in the off-season.

Conclusion

Hopefully, you have got the answer of whether is it better to buy a flight early or not. Airfare can change anytime so there is not one certain date that is known for being the least expensive day to book flights. However, you should try to book on weekdays as weekends are more preferred option for travel. On weekdays you might get cheaper flights.

FAQ about How Far Ahead to Book a Flight

Question: Is it possible to book a flight up to a year in advance?

Answer: Almost a year in advance, yes! Many airlines open their booking window around 330 days before the departure date. Although it may vary, depending on the airlines. So, you are advised to check the airlines' official website to know the details.

Question: How late is it possible to purchase an airline ticket?

Answer: As long as your flight is not departed you can book the flight ticket. However, they are more costlier than the normal flight fare.