Is it more beneficial to book airline tickets through an agent or directly with the airline?

The answer to your question depends on your preferences regarding bookings and the level of service you expect when arranging flights. Here, we've prepared a few things you should know about airline tickets, whether booked through an airline or an online travel agency.

 

Bookings through online travel agencies offer more diverse options.

When buying airline tickets, most people look for specific amenities and have a set budget. Booking tickets directly with an airline means you face limited flight options. This is natural, as the airline will only present its own flights and those it code-shares with other companies.

An online travel agency, like our partners here at Travelo, can offer you a comprehensive overview of all available flights and routes to a destination, providing you with more information and choices, so you can select the ideal itinerary for your needs.

Therefore, in terms of the number of options, online travel agencies offer a significant advantage.

 

Don't underestimate the value of booking through an online travel agency.

The process is simpler compared to having to navigate the websites of various airlines, which can be complex and difficult to use. Each website has a different layout and offers different levels of transparency.

You might not be sure which airline to choose. Our consumer research showed that most people are interested in cost, comfort, and convenience. The value of the ticket and comfort during the flight are important factors, followed by a convenient booking experience. This is where travel websites have the edge!

When searching and comparing flights, online travel agencies present all available options in one place. It is possible to apply further filters and select flights using the user-friendly comparison tool.

 

Booking through an online travel agency will offer you better support!

Often, airlines seem to avoid responsibility for passengers who booked through third parties when unforeseen problems arise during a trip. This can create the impression that airlines won't offer assistance in cases of weather delays, missed connections, or other issues. Today, however, this isn't true!

In the event of a flight delay, a third-party booking can prove truly beneficial. Let's imagine you booked a flight with Ryanair and an unforeseen event occurs, such as mechanical difficulties with aircraft or a sudden illness of the crew. Ryanair will find itself handling hundreds of rebooking requests.

In such circumstances, Ryanair's agents will be overwhelmed, and the gate staff stressed, trying to manage many passengers. Those who booked directly through Ryanair will depend solely on them for help. However, if you have booked through a travel agency, for example, you will have the support of their agents, who are available to assist, negotiate with Ryanair, and resolve problems with other airlines, and all this in real-time.

 

Is it possible to use reward points when booking flights through third parties?

There's a misconception that you cannot benefit from frequent flyer or loyalty programmes if you book through third parties. However, you can incorporate your loyalty programme number, ensuring you don't lose your valuable points – such as Aegean's Miles&Bonus programme.

What happens when an airline changes its flight schedule?

If you have booked a direct flight and the airline changes the schedule, eliminating that option, with a direct booking you often don't have many alternatives. Usually, airlines offer rebooking for connecting flights or a refund.

However, if you have booked through a third party, additional options can be considered for you. New connecting flight options are offered, but the agency will certainly look for other solutions more suitable for your needs.

 

Do travel agencies or airlines offer price guarantees for tickets?

Some online travel agencies offer a price guarantee – so, if you find the same ticket elsewhere with a large price difference, they will refund you a certain amount.

On the other hand, airlines never offer such a thing!

Overall, booking directly with airlines and through third parties can offer various advantages, depending on your needs. Be properly informed so that your travel experience is the best possible, and always do adequate research to find the cheapest airline tickets!