travel about airlines

Simple Flying

Airline travel 101: a beginner's guide to flying.

Your changes have been saved

Email is sent

Email has already been sent

Please verify your email address.

You’ve reached your account maximum for followed topics.

Snakes Alive! Pythons Recovered From A Passenger’s Bag At Chennai Airport

London heathrow airport is set to revive 3rd runway plans next year, encouraging public transport use: london gatwick airport raises drop-off charges by 20%.

Airline travel has become an essential part of modern life, connecting people across the globe and making the world more accessible than ever before. If you're new to flying or simply want to brush up on your knowledge, this beginner's guide to airline travel will provide you with everything you need to navigate the skies with confidence.

First things first

The first step in airline travel is booking your flight . Start by choosing your destination and preferred travel dates. Visit airline websites or online travel agencies to compare prices and flight options. Consider factors such as layovers, airline reputation, and baggage allowances when making your decision. Once you've selected your flight, follow the booking process, provide passenger information, and complete the payment to secure your ticket.

Next, consider what and how you’ll be packing for the trip. Check the airline's baggage policy to determine the allowed size, weight, and number of bags. Make a checklist of essential items, including travel documents (passport, ID, and visa), tickets, electronic devices, chargers, medications, and necessary clothing.

Remember to pack liquids in accordance with aviation security rules. Oftentimes, you’ll need to follow the 100ml rule and place liquids, aerosols, and gels in a clear, resealable bag.

Want answers to more key questions in aviation? Check out the rest of our guides here .

All packed? You’re ready to go!

Before your flight, it's essential to check-in. Most airlines offer online check-in, allowing you to select seats, print boarding passes, and avoid long queues at the airport. Online check-in typically opens 24 hours before departure.

If you prefer doing this in person, head to the check-in counter at the airport. Note that some low-cost airlines might charge you for an in-person check-in, so definitely log in before your flight to confirm. Whether you check in online or at the airport, if you have luggage to check , arrive at the airport (wear comfortable clothes for the flight!) with sufficient time to complete the check-in process and drop off your bags.

Get the latest aviation news straight to your inbox: Sign up for our newsletters today.

Airport security procedures are designed to ensure the safety of all passengers. Familiarize yourself with the regulations to make the security screening process smoother. Prepare by removing any metal objects, electronics, and liquids from your carry-on bag for separate screening. Nearly all airports need you to pass through a metal detector and/or a full body scan to check for any dangerous substances. Ensure you don't have anything in your pockets and remove any heavy layers to avoid further scrutiny.

Some airports may require you to remove your shoes too. Simply follow the instructions of security personnel, place your belongings in the provided bins, proceed through the metal detectors or body scanners, and you’re good to go.

Once through security, keep an eye on the information screens for your flight's gate number and boarding time. Airlines usually begin boarding with specific zones or groups, so pay attention to the announcements and follow the instructions. Have your boarding pass and identification ready for inspection, and proceed to the aircraft when your zone is called.

Taking to the skies

Once onboard, find your assigned seat and stow your carry-on luggage in the overhead compartment or under the seat in front of you. Fasten your seatbelt and listen to the safety instructions provided by the flight attendants.

During the flight, don’t forget to make use of the provided amenities, such as the in-flight entertainment system (or bring along a flight-friendly game ), reading materials, or refreshments. Follow any specific guidelines given by the cabin crew – and remember to look out the window to enjoy a bird’s eye view of the world!

When the aircraft has touched down, remain seated until the aircraft has come to a complete stop and the seatbelt sign is turned off. Then, gather your personal belongings and proceed through the arrival procedures at the airport.

Lastly, locate your assigned carousel, and wait for your luggage to arrive (handy tip: use luggage tags so you can easily identify your bags). If any items are missing or damaged, be sure to inform staff at the baggage service counter before leaving the airport.

Discover more aviation news about the passenger experience here.

Now you're all equipped with the knowledge needed for a successful and memorable journey. Embrace the adventure, enjoy the experience, and most importantly, have fun!

• Passenger Experience

Compare flights from 100s of sites.

Big names, great deals, filter for what you want, track prices, more than flights, search cheap flights by destination, find cheap flights.

Save money on airfare by searching for cheap flight tickets on KAYAK. KAYAK searches for flight deals on hundreds of airline tickets sites to help you find the cheapest flights. Whether you are looking for a last minute flight or a cheap plane ticket for a later date, you can find the best deals faster at KAYAK.

Las Vegas Flights

• Flight Phoenix - Las Vegas (PHX - LAS) $27+
• Flight San Diego - Las Vegas (SAN - LAS) $29+
• Flight Los Angeles - Las Vegas (LAX - LAS) $33+
• Flight San Jose - Las Vegas (SJC - LAS) $33+
• Flight Ontario - Las Vegas (ONT - LAS) $37+
• Flight Burbank - Las Vegas (BUR - LAS) $38+
• Flight Oakland - Las Vegas (OAK - LAS) $39+
• Flight Portland - Las Vegas (PDX - LAS) $39+
• Flight San Antonio - Las Vegas (SAT - LAS) $39+
• Flight Santa Ana - Las Vegas (SNA - LAS) $39+

Los Angeles Flights

• Flight Las Vegas - Los Angeles (LAS - LAX) $33+
• Flight San Jose - Los Angeles (SJC - LAX) $39+
• Flight Dallas - Los Angeles (DFW - LAX) $45+
• Flight Oakland - Los Angeles (OAK - LAX) $47+
• Flight Phoenix - Los Angeles (PHX - LAX) $50+
• Flight Seattle - Los Angeles (SEA - LAX) $51+
• Flight Portland - Los Angeles (PDX - LAX) $58+
• Flight San Francisco - Los Angeles (SFO - LAX) $60+
• Flight Salt Lake City - Los Angeles (SLC - LAX) $68+
• Flight Atlanta - Los Angeles (ATL - LAX) $69+

Orlando Flights

• Flight Charlotte - Orlando (CLT - ORL) $36+
• Flight Atlanta - Orlando (ATL - ORL) $37+
• Flight Houston - Orlando (IAH - ORL) $54+
• Flight St. Louis - Orlando (STL - ORL) $55+
• Flight Philadelphia - Orlando (PHL - ORL) $56+
• Flight Baltimore - Orlando (BWI - ORL) $58+
• Flight Hartford - Orlando (BDL - ORL) $58+
• Flight Cincinnati - Orlando (CVG - ORL) $62+
• Flight Chicago - Orlando (CHI - ORL) $66+
• Flight Dallas - Orlando (DFW - ORL) $67+

Cancun Flights

• Flight Fort Lauderdale - Cancún (FLL - CUN) $181+
• Flight Chicago - Cancún (CHI - CUN) $190+
• Flight Philadelphia - Cancún (PHL - CUN) $190+
• Flight Dallas - Cancún (DFW - CUN) $207+
• Flight Houston - Cancún (HOU - CUN) $217+
• Flight Orlando - Cancún (ORL - CUN) $223+
• Flight Atlanta - Cancún (ATL - CUN) $227+
• Flight Las Vegas - Cancún (LAS - CUN) $227+
• Flight Miami - Cancún (MIA - CUN) $234+
• Flight New York - Cancún (NYC - CUN) $235+

Tokyo Flights

• Flight Phoenix - Tokyo (PHX - TYO) $444+
• Flight Honolulu - Tokyo (HNL - TYO) $454+
• Flight San Jose - Tokyo (SJC - TYO) $479+
• Flight Seattle - Tokyo (SEA - TYO) $535+
• Flight Los Angeles - Tokyo (LAX - TYO) $537+
• Flight San Francisco - Tokyo (SFO - TYO) $552+
• Flight San Diego - Tokyo (SAN - TYO) $643+
• Flight Dallas - Tokyo (DFW - TYO) $660+
• Flight Las Vegas - Tokyo (LAS - TYO) $667+
• Flight New York - Tokyo (NYC - TYO) $675+

Chicago Flights

• Flight Dallas - Chicago (DFW - CHI) $39+
• Flight Boston - Chicago (BOS - CHI) $46+
• Flight Atlanta - Chicago (ATL - CHI) $47+
• Flight New York - Chicago (NYC - CHI) $51+
• Flight Charlotte - Chicago (CLT - CHI) $53+
• Flight Miami - Chicago (MIA - CHI) $55+
• Flight Tampa - Chicago (TPA - CHI) $55+
• Flight Houston - Chicago (IAH - CHI) $58+
• Flight Las Vegas - Chicago (LAS - CHI) $60+
• Flight Denver - Chicago (DEN - CHI) $62+

Phoenix Flights

• Flight Dallas - Phoenix (DFW - PHX) $43+
• Flight Las Vegas - Phoenix (LAS - PHX) $43+
• Flight Salt Lake City - Phoenix (SLC - PHX) $49+
• Flight Los Angeles - Phoenix (LAX - PHX) $54+
• Flight San Diego - Phoenix (SAN - PHX) $54+
• Flight Denver - Phoenix (DEN - PHX) $60+
• Flight Houston - Phoenix (IAH - PHX) $62+
• Flight San Francisco - Phoenix (SFO - PHX) $65+
• Flight Seattle - Phoenix (SEA - PHX) $72+
• Flight Portland - Phoenix (PDX - PHX) $80+

India Flights

• Flight Washington, D.C. - New Delhi (WAS - DEL) $589+
• Flight San Francisco - New Delhi (SFO - DEL) $593+
• Flight San Francisco - Mumbai (SFO - BOM) $601+
• Flight New York - New Delhi (NYC - DEL) $610+
• Flight San Francisco - Bengaluru (SFO - BLR) $627+
• Flight New York - Mumbai (NYC - BOM) $650+
• Flight Chicago - New Delhi (CHI - DEL) $659+
• Flight Boston - Mumbai (BOS - BOM) $663+
• Flight Washington, D.C. - Hyderabad (WAS - HYD) $683+
• Flight Dallas - New Delhi (DFW - DEL) $694+

Japan Flights

• Flight Denver - Tokyo (DEN - TYO) $685+
• Flight Portland - Tokyo (PDX - TYO) $690+
• Flight San Francisco - Osaka (SFO - OSA) $691+
• Flight Houston - Tokyo (IAH - TYO) $720+
• Flight Atlanta - Tokyo (ATL - TYO) $721+
• Flight Los Angeles - Osaka (LAX - OSA) $734+
• Flight Boston - Tokyo (BOS - TYO) $798+
• Flight Los Angeles - Okinawa (LAX - OKA) $822+
• Flight Chicago - Tokyo (CHI - TYO) $943+

New York Flights

• Flight Atlanta - New York (ATL - NYC) $36+
• Flight Fort Lauderdale - New York (FLL - NYC) $45+
• Flight Charlotte - New York (CLT - NYC) $46+
• Flight Boston - Newark (BOS - NYC) $48+
• Flight Chicago - New York (CHI - NYC) $51+
• Flight Miami - New York (MIA - NYC) $51+
• Flight Raleigh - New York (RDU - NYC) $56+
• Flight Orlando - New York (ORL - NYC) $63+
• Flight Houston - New York (IAH - NYC) $64+
• Flight Dallas - New York (DFW - NYC) $71+

Miami Flights

• Flight New York - Miami (NYC - MIA) $49+
• Flight Charlotte - Miami (CLT - MIA) $63+
• Flight Dallas - Miami (DFW - MIA) $65+
• Flight Chicago - Miami (CHI - MIA) $69+
• Flight Nashville - Miami (BNA - MIA) $70+
• Flight Atlanta - Miami (ATL - MIA) $71+
• Flight Raleigh - Miami (RDU - MIA) $74+
• Flight Boston - Miami (BOS - MIA) $75+
• Flight Las Vegas - Miami (LAS - MIA) $75+
• Flight Houston - Miami (IAH - MIA) $76+

Rome Flights

• Flight New York - Rome (NYC - ROM) $330+
• Flight Miami - Rome (MIA - ROM) $364+
• Flight Boston - Rome (BOS - ROM) $390+
• Flight Los Angeles - Rome (LAX - ROM) $416+
• Flight Baltimore - Rome (BWI - ROM) $419+
• Flight San Francisco - Rome (SFO - ROM) $441+
• Flight Atlanta - Rome (ATL - ROM) $444+
• Flight Las Vegas - Rome (LAS - ROM) $451+
• Flight Fort Lauderdale - Rome (FLL - ROM) $455+
• Flight Seattle - Rome (SEA - ROM) $523+

Seattle Flights

• Flight Las Vegas - Seattle (LAS - SEA) $37+
• Flight Ontario - Seattle (ONT - SEA) $48+
• Flight Los Angeles - Seattle (LAX - SEA) $51+
• Flight Dallas - Seattle (DFW - SEA) $64+
• Flight Sacramento - Seattle (SMF - SEA) $64+
• Flight San Jose - Seattle (SJC - SEA) $67+
• Flight Santa Ana - Seattle (SNA - SEA) $74+
• Flight Salt Lake City - Seattle (SLC - SEA) $76+
• Flight Phoenix - Seattle (PHX - SEA) $78+
• Flight San Diego - Seattle (SAN - SEA) $78+

Fort Lauderdale Flights

• Flight Hartford - Fort Lauderdale (BDL - FLL) $37+
• Flight New York - Fort Lauderdale (NYC - FLL) $45+
• Flight Raleigh - Fort Lauderdale (RDU - FLL) $48+
• Flight Atlanta - Fort Lauderdale (ATL - FLL) $51+
• Flight Boston - Fort Lauderdale (BOS - FLL) $51+
• Flight Dallas - Fort Lauderdale (DFW - FLL) $52+
• Flight Cleveland - Fort Lauderdale (CLE - FLL) $66+
• Flight Chicago - Fort Lauderdale (CHI - FLL) $71+
• Flight Tampa - Fort Lauderdale (TPA - FLL) $72+
• Flight Baltimore - Fort Lauderdale (BWI - FLL) $74+

Atlanta Flights

• Flight Boston - Atlanta (BOS - ATL) $33+
• Flight Houston - Atlanta (IAH - ATL) $34+
• Flight Houston - Atlanta (HOU - ATL) $34+
• Flight Baltimore - Atlanta (BWI - ATL) $36+
• Flight New York - Atlanta (NYC - ATL) $37+
• Flight Orlando - Atlanta (ORL - ATL) $37+
• Flight Philadelphia - Atlanta (PHL - ATL) $37+
• Flight Dallas - Atlanta (DFW - ATL) $38+
• Flight Cleveland - Atlanta (CLE - ATL) $49+
• Flight Fort Lauderdale - Atlanta (FLL - ATL) $51+

Boston Flights

• Flight Atlanta - Boston (ATL - BOS) $37+
• Flight Nashville - Boston (BNA - BOS) $45+
• Flight Baltimore - Boston (BWI - BOS) $47+
• Flight Fort Lauderdale - Boston (FLL - BOS) $51+
• Flight Philadelphia - Boston (PHL - BOS) $54+
• Flight Dallas - Boston (DFW - BOS) $59+
• Flight Houston - Boston (IAH - BOS) $60+
• Flight Charlotte - Boston (CLT - BOS) $61+
• Flight Miami - Boston (MIA - BOS) $70+
• Flight Orlando - Boston (ORL - BOS) $72+

United States Flights

• Flight Seattle - Las Vegas (SEA - LAS) $39+
• Flight Dallas - Las Vegas (DFW - LAS) $40+
• Flight San Francisco - Las Vegas (SFO - LAS) $49+
• Flight Boston - Orlando (BOS - ORL) $68+
• Flight Atlanta - Las Vegas (ATL - LAS) $69+
• Flight New York - Orlando (NYC - ORL) $75+
• Flight Denver - Las Vegas (DEN - LAS) $82+
• Flight Philadelphia - Miami (PHL - MIA) $89+
• Flight Minneapolis - Phoenix (MSP - PH1) $96+
• Flight Minneapolis - Las Vegas (MSP - LAS) $112+

Hawaii Flights

• Flight Los Angeles - Hawaii (LAX - USHI) $151+
• Flight San Francisco - Hawaii (SFO - USHI) $169+
• Flight San Jose - Hawaii (SJC - USHI) $194+
• Flight Seattle - Hawaii (SEA - USHI) $210+
• Flight Oakland - Hawaii (OAK - USHI) $229+
• Flight San Diego - Hawaii (SAN - USHI) $236+
• Flight Portland - Hawaii (PDX - USHI) $248+
• Flight Sacramento - Hawaii (SMF - USHI) $248+
• Flight Ontario - Hawaii (ONT - USHI) $286+
• Flight Las Vegas - Hawaii (LAS - USHI) $297+

London Flights

• Flight New York - London (NYC - LON) $300+
• Flight Atlanta - London (ATL - LON) $325+
• Flight Boston - London (BOS - LON) $325+
• Flight Chicago - London (CHI - LON) $325+
• Flight Washington, D.C. - London (WAS - LON) $325+
• Flight Miami - London (MIA - LON) $351+
• Flight Los Angeles - London (LAX - LON) $400+
• Flight San Francisco - London (SFO - LON) $430+
• Flight Baltimore - London (BWI - LON) $465+
• Flight Seattle - London (SEA - LON) $466+

Paris Flights

• Flight New York - Paris (NYC - PAR) $298+
• Flight Baltimore - Paris (BWI - PAR) $306+
• Flight Boston - Paris (BOS - PAR) $306+
• Flight Washington, D.C. - Paris (WAS - PAR) $306+
• Flight New Windsor - Paris (SWF - PAR) $311+
• Flight Los Angeles - Paris (LAX - PAR) $316+
• Flight Chicago - Paris (CHI - PAR) $379+
• Flight Miami - Paris (MIA - PAR) $388+
• Flight Atlanta - Paris (ATL - PAR) $398+
• Flight Las Vegas - Paris (LAS - PAR) $404+

Manila Flights

• Flight Los Angeles - Manila (LAX - MNL) $534+
• Flight San Francisco - Manila (SFO - MNL) $716+
• Flight Seattle - Manila (SEA - MNL) $725+
• Flight Honolulu - Manila (HNL - MNL) $744+
• Flight New York - Manila (NYC - MNL) $761+
• Flight Ontario - Manila (ONT - MNL) $764+
• Flight Houston - Manila (IAH - MNL) $783+
• Flight Chicago - Manila (CHI - MNL) $790+
• Flight Atlanta - Manila (ATL - MNL) $831+
• Flight Las Vegas - Manila (LAS - MNL) $839+

Denver Flights

• Flight Phoenix - Denver (PHX - DEN) $38+
• Flight Ontario - Denver (ONT - DEN) $58+
• Flight Los Angeles - Denver (LAX - DEN) $61+
• Flight San Diego - Denver (SAN - DEN) $61+
• Flight Salt Lake City - Denver (SLC - DEN) $64+
• Flight Minneapolis - Denver (MSP - DEN) $68+
• Flight Seattle - Denver (SEA - DEN) $73+
• Flight St. Louis - Denver (STL - DEN) $76+
• Flight Austin - Denver (AUS - DEN) $78+
• Flight Portland - Denver (PDX - DEN) $78+

San Francisco Flights

• Flight Los Angeles - San Francisco (LAX - SFO) $48+
• Flight Ontario - San Francisco (ONT - SFO) $48+
• Flight Las Vegas - San Francisco (LAS - SFO) $63+
• Flight Santa Ana - San Francisco (SNA - SFO) $77+
• Flight Denver - San Francisco (DEN - SFO) $82+
• Flight San Diego - San Francisco (SAN - SFO) $83+
• Flight Phoenix - San Francisco (PHX - SFO) $84+
• Flight Portland - San Francisco (PDX - SFO) $88+
• Flight Salt Lake City - San Francisco (SLC - SFO) $88+
• Flight Seattle - San Francisco (SEA - SFO) $115+

San Diego Flights

• Flight Las Vegas - San Diego (LAS - SAN) $31+
• Flight Sacramento - San Diego (SMF - SAN) $37+
• Flight San Jose - San Diego (SJC - SAN) $38+
• Flight Oakland - San Diego (OAK - SAN) $42+
• Flight Phoenix - San Diego (PHX - SAN) $44+
• Flight Dallas - San Diego (DFW - SAN) $64+
• Flight Chicago - San Diego (CHI - SAN) $65+
• Flight Portland - San Diego (PDX - SAN) $70+
• Flight Salt Lake City - San Diego (SLC - SAN) $74+
• Flight Seattle - San Diego (SEA - SAN) $78+

Punta Cana Flights

• Flight Fort Lauderdale - Punta Cana (FLL - PUJ) $188+
• Flight Miami - Punta Cana (MIA - PUJ) $200+
• Flight Raleigh - Punta Cana (RDU - PUJ) $246+
• Flight Hartford - Punta Cana (BDL - PUJ) $256+
• Flight New York - Punta Cana (NYC - PUJ) $259+
• Flight Boston - Punta Cana (BOS - PUJ) $260+
• Flight Philadelphia - Punta Cana (PHL - PUJ) $260+
• Flight Atlanta - Punta Cana (ATL - PUJ) $263+
• Flight Tampa - Punta Cana (TPA - PUJ) $265+
• Flight Dallas - Punta Cana (DFW - PUJ) $269+

Europe Flights

• Flight Boston - Dublin (BOS - DUB) $302+
• Flight Boston - Lisbon (BOS - LIS) $312+
• Flight Miami - Madrid (MIA - MAD) $314+
• Flight New York - Athens (NYC - ATH) $383+
• Flight Los Angeles - Lisbon (LAX - LIS) $409+
• Flight Boston - Athens (BOS - ATH) $422+
• Flight Los Angeles - Madrid (LAX - MAD) $438+
• Flight Los Angeles - Athens (LAX - ATH) $499+
• Flight Los Angeles - Istanbul (LAX - TR5) $555+
• Flight San Francisco - Lisbon (SFO - LIS) $613+

Florida Flights

• Flight New York - Florida (NYC - USFL) $45+
• Flight Atlanta - Florida (ATL - USFL) $51+
• Flight Boston - Florida (BOS - USFL) $51+
• Flight Philadelphia - Florida (PHL - USFL) $56+
• Flight Baltimore - Florida (BWI - USFL) $58+
• Flight Hartford - Florida (BDL - USFL) $58+
• Flight Charlotte - Florida (CLT - USFL) $63+
• Flight Dallas - Florida (DFW - USFL) $65+
• Flight Los Angeles - Florida (LAX - USFL) $83+
• Flight Minneapolis - Florida (MSP - USFL) $103+

Frequently asked questions

What do i need to know before booking a flight.

There are various factors to consider when booking a flight including cost, fare classes, baggage policies, the complications of flying long haul, and complying with airport regulations. To make your booking journey smoother KAYAK has developed a comprehensive flight guide including insights on finding affordable flights, packing efficiently, and utilizing the best travel tools.

What is the cheapest day of the week to book a flight?

The best day to book your flight depends on a number of factors, but there are general trends that you can follow to increase your chances of cheaper plane tickets. Based on an analysis of KAYAK data for all flights departing from inside United States over the last 12 months, the cheapest day to fly for domestic flights is Wednesday. For international flights, Tuesday had the cheapest tickets on average.

Which month of the year are flight prices lowest?

It’s well established that flights in the low season are generally cheaper than ticket prices during the high season. That means that knowing which month to find the lowest priced plane tickets will depend heavily on seasonality and your destination. While avoiding peak travel times can help you keep costs down, our data shows that the month with the lowest priced plane tickets for domestic flights based on all searches made on KAYAK in the last 12 months was January, while the most expensive was August. If you’re booking an international flight, then January is the cheapest month to fly and June the most expensive.

When is the best time to buy plane tickets - Last minute or in advance?

Last minute flight deals are definitely up for grabs but when exactly to purchase your plane tickets will depend on where you’re traveling to and from. Based on all data for flight searches made on KAYAK over the last 12 months, prices for domestic flights remained below the average price up to 1 weeks before departure. For international flights, deals could still be had up to 1 weeks prior to the departure date, with prices remaining below average. If you’re flexible, KAYAK brings you both advance and last minute one-way and round-trip flight deals.

Can flying international flights with a layover save money on airfare?

For many long-haul international flights, flying non-stop is not possible and you will have to fly with a layover. Some routes will offer both and you could consider flying with a layover for a number of reasons. Firstly, breaking up what would otherwise be a long-haul flight, taking a rest and then completing the journey might make the flight more manageable. Secondly, prices can also be lower than non-stop flights, so while it might take longer for you to reach your destination, you could save money. We’ve looked at prices over the last 12 months for the 100 most popular international destinations for KAYAK users and on average, prices for non-stop flights were cheaper than flights with a layover.

How does KAYAK find such low flight prices?

KAYAK processes over 2 billion flight queries annually and displays results from hundreds of airlines and third party sites, allowing it to find a variety of flight prices and options. It also displays results from 2M+ properties along with rental cars, vacation packages, activities and millions of verified reviews so users can see as many available travel options as possible.

How do I find the best flight deals on KAYAK?

A simple flight search at https://www.kayak.com/flights scans for prices on hundreds of travel sites in seconds. We gather flight deals from across the web and put them in one place. Then on the search results page you can use various filters to compare options for the same flight and easily choose the best flight deal from all of the deals coming straight from the travel sites to your screen, with no extra fee from KAYAK.

How can Hacker Fares save me money?

Hacker Fares allow you to combine one-way tickets on different airlines when it can save you money over a traditional round-trip ticket.

Does KAYAK query more flight providers than competitors?

Yes, KAYAK has access to more data and information than online travel agencies and consistently outperforms the competition in accuracy, globally.

How does KAYAK's flight Price Forecast tool help me choose the right time to buy?

KAYAK's flight Price Forecast tool uses historical data to determine whether the price for a given destination and date is likely to change within 7 days, so travelers know whether to wait or book now.

What is KAYAK's "flexible dates" feature and why should I care?

Sometimes travel dates aren't set in stone. If your preferred travel dates have some wiggle room, flexible dates will show you flights up to 3 days before/after your preferred dates. That way, you can see if leaving a day or two earlier will find you a better deal. You can also select the flexible "weekend" or "month" search options to widen your search range and find the cheapest price that works for you.

Search cheap flights with KAYAK. Search for the cheapest airline tickets for all the top airlines around the world, airports around the world and the top international flight routes . KAYAK searches hundreds of travel sites to help you find cheap airfare and book a flight that suits you best. Since KAYAK searches many plane tickets sites at once, you can find cheap tickets from cheap airlines and for trains and buses quickly.

KAYAK also helps you find the right hotels for your needs.

Members can access discounts and special features

Search cheap flights.

Add a place to stay

Featured travel

Discover airfare

 Flights under $200

It’s time to get away—up and away!

Book on American Airlines for sweet deals to all your favorite destinations

Things are looking up—and booking up! 

Head to United Airlines and snag awesome flight deals now. 

Travel advice and inspiration from the experts

Advice for healthier air travel

When you’re ready to board a plane, here is our advice for traveling safer and smarter.

How to plan a trip right now

Ready to get back out there? Here are some things to consider as you start to plan your next trip.

Trips to recharge

Recharge, reboot and recenter. Here's where to go when the time is right.

Deals designed for you

Last minute

All-inclusive

Pet-friendly

Solo Traveler

How to find cheap flights, what is the best day to buy a plane ticket.

This just in! Airfares offered on Thursdays tend to be the cheapest, according to flight demand on Travelocity in 2021. Tuesday and Wednesday prices are also good, but you may want to prepare your budget if booking during the weekend, as data shows that is when prices are generally at their highest.

What are the cheapest days to fly?

Frequent travelers may already know this, but earlier in the week can be the cheapest time to fly. In 2021, flights departing on a Monday were generally the cheapest of the week, whereas you may pay a premium for weekend flights when demand is usually high. On average, tickets were most expensive for Saturday departures, so if you need to fly out on a weekend, you might look for deals ahead of time.

How far in advance can you book a flight?

Trying to figure out how early you should book your flight? It’s possible to start comparing international airfares on Travelocity up to 12 months in advance. However, it does depend on the carrier as not all airlines release their prices that far out. According to our 2021 flight demand trends, last minute planners can still bag a bargain with some of the cheapest fares appearing 0-2 weeks prior to their travel dates.

*According to flight demand on Travelocity.com from January to December 2021. Savings are subject to change based on departure location, date and destination.

Destination ideas to plan your next trip

Popular domestic flights.

• Flights to Las Vegas
• Flights to Orlando
• Flights to Honolulu
• Flights to Miami
• Flights to Maui
• Flights to Washington
• Flights to Chicago
• Flights to Minneapolis
• Flights to Newark
• Flights to New York
• Flights to Phoenix
• Flights to Los Angeles
• Flights to Portland
• Domestic Routes

Popular States in the US

• Cheap Flights to Florida
• Cheap Flights to Hawaii
• Cheap Flights to North Carolina
• Cheap Flights to California
• Cheap Flights to Arizona
• Cheap Flights to South Carolina
• Cheap Flights to Alaska
• Cheap Flights to San Diego
• Cheap Flights to New Jersey
• Cheap Flights to Colorado

Popular Airlines

• Cheap Delta Tickets
• Cheap JetBlue Airways Tickets
• Cheap American Airlines Tickets
• Cheap Spirit Airlines Tickets
• Cheap United Tickets
• Cheap Volaris Tickets
• Cheap Philippine Airlines Tickets
• Cheap Alaska Airlines Tickets
• Cheap Frontier Airlines Tickets
• Cheap Hawaiian Airlines

Top Routes to Orlando

• Chicago (ORD) to Orlando (MCO)
• Philadelphia (PHL) to Orlando (MCO)
• New York (JFK) to Orlando (MCO)
• Detroit (DTW) to Orlando (MCO)
• Newark (EWR) to Orlando (MCO)
• Dallas (DFW) to Orlando (MCO)
• Los Angeles (LAX) to Orlando (MCO)
• Minneapolis (MSP) to Orlando (MCO)
• Baltimore (BWI) to Orlando (MCO)
• Raleigh (RDU) to Orlando (MCO)

Top Routes to Los Angeles

• Dallas (DFW) to Los Angeles (LAX)
• Atlanta (ATL) to Los Angeles (LAX)
• Chicago (ORD) to Los Angeles (LAX)
• New York (JFK) to Los Angeles (LAX)
• Portland (PDX) to Los Angeles (LAX)
• Boston (BOS) to Los Angeles (LAX)
• Philadelphia (PHL) to Los Angeles (LAX)
• Newark (EWR) to Los Angeles (LAX)
• Detroit (DTW) to Los Angeles (LAX)
• Orlando (MCO) to Los Angeles (LAX)

Top Routes to Denver

• Minneapolis (MSP) to Denver (DEN)
• Dallas (DFW) to Denver (DEN)
• Philadelphia (PHL) to Denver (DEN)
• Atlanta (ATL) to Denver (DEN)
• Los Angeles (LAX) to Denver (DEN)
• Phoenix (PHX) to Denver (DEN)
• Boston (BOS) to Denver (DEN)
• Detroit (DTW) to Denver (DEN)
• Kansas City (MCI) to Denver (DEN)
• Orlando (MCO) to Denver (DEN)

Top Routes to Miami

• Philadelphia (PHL) to Miami (MIA)
• Newark (EWR) to Miami (MIA)
• New York (JFK) to Miami (MIA)
• (ATL) to Miami (MIA)
• Boston (BOS) to Miami (MIA)
• Detroit (DTW) to Miami (MIA)
• Dallas (DFW) to Miami (MIA)
• Los Angeles (LAX) to Miami (MIA)
• Chicago (ORD) to Miami (MIA)
• Raleigh (RDU) to Miami (MIA)

Top Routes to New York

• Los Angeles (LAX) to New York (JFK)
• Orlando (MCO) to New York (JFK)
• Raleigh (RDU) to New York (JFK)
• Tampa (TPA) to New York (JFK)
• Charlotte (CLT) to New York (JFK)
• Phoenix (PHX) to New York (JFK)
• Kingston (KIN-Norman Manley Intl.) (KIN) to New York (JFK)
• Port of Spain (POS-Piarco Intl.) (POS) to New York (JFK)
• San Francisco (SFO) to New York (JFK)
• Atlanta (ATL) to New York (JFK)

Top Routes to Dallas

• Los Angeles (LAX) to Dallas (DFW)
• Chicago (ORD) to Dallas (DFW)
• Detroit (DTW) to Dallas (DFW)
• Minneapolis (MSP) to Dallas (DFW)
• Orlando (MCO) to Dallas (DFW)
• Atlanta (ATL) to Dallas (DFW)
• Raleigh (RDU) to Dallas (DFW)
• Phoenix (PHX) to Dallas (DFW)
• Houston (HOU) to Dallas (DFW)
• Newark (EWR) to Dallas (DFW)

Top Routes to Tampa

• Philadelphia (PHL) to Tampa (TPA)
• Detroit (DTW) to Tampa (TPA)
• Chicago (ORD) to Tampa (TPA)
• New York (JFK) to Tampa (TPA)
• Minneapolis (MSP) to Tampa (TPA)
• Newark (EWR) to Tampa (TPA)
• Boston (BOS) to Tampa (TPA)
• Dallas (DFW) to Tampa (TPA)
• Raleigh (RDU) to Tampa (TPA)
• Hartford (BDL) to Tampa (TPA)

Top Routes to Washington

• Los Angeles (LAX) to Washington (DCA)
• Orlando (MCO) to Washington (DCA)
• Boston (BOS) to Washington (DCA)
• Jacksonville (JAX) to Washington (DCA)
• Dallas (DFW) to Washington (DCA)
• Tampa (TPA) to Washington (DCA)
• Hartford (BDL) to Washington (DCA)
• Phoenix (PHX) to Washington (DCA)
• Detroit (DTW) to Washington (DCA)
• Charlotte (CLT) to Washington (DCA)

Top Routes to Atlanta

• Los Angeles (LAX) to Atlanta (ATL)
• Philadelphia (PHL) to Atlanta (ATL)
• New York (JFK) to Atlanta (ATL)
• Dallas (DFW) to Atlanta (ATL)
• Orlando (MCO) to Atlanta (ATL)
• Boston (BOS) to Atlanta (ATL)
• Baltimore (BWI) to Atlanta (ATL)
• Raleigh (RDU) to Atlanta (ATL)
• Newark (EWR) to Atlanta (ATL)
• Tampa (TPA) to Atlanta (ATL)

Compare travel providers and save with Cheapflights

Leverage cheapflights for your next trip, 1. tell us where you want to go, 2. select your favorite providers, 3. compare prices and book, all our top travel offers, deals, insider tips and inspiration, newsletters.

Join for free and get our tailored newsletters full of hot travel deals.

Travel tips & news

Tips, news and entertainment from our travel experts to make your next trip even better.

Your Journey with Cheapflights

Cheapflights is more than a travel website; it's your personal travel comparison hub. We empower you to handpick up to four of your preferred travel providers, bringing their offerings side by side for a direct comparison. Our 'Compare To' model is designed to tailor your search experience, ensuring you can weigh options from your favorite airlines, hotels, and rental services in one consolidated view. With Cheapflights, you're not just searching for travel options; you're curating them to perfectly fit your travel style and preferences.

Optimizing Your Search on Cheapflights

To fully harness the power of Cheapflights, take advantage of our 'Compare To' feature. This allows you to place your chosen travel providers in a head-to-head comparison, ensuring you can make decisions with a clear overview of what each one offers. Keep an eye on the comprehensive pricing from multiple providers. Our transparent approach means you see all the costs upfront, allowing for an apples-to-apples comparison on price and value. Understand the dynamic nature of travel pricing. Our comparison model provides a snapshot of the best current deals, encouraging you to book quickly when you find the perfect fit among your selected providers. With Cheapflights, you're in control, using our comprehensive comparison features to find the deal that's just right for you.

Great deals on plane tickets

We have you covered when it comes to value travel and the cheapest flights. Browse our options to get the best deals on airline tickets, no matter where you're headed.

* All prices subject to availability

Find the best deals for cheap flights

Start your search for cheap airfare and travel deals with Cheapflights. Whether it's a romantic weekend getaway, a family vacation, a dream destination on your bucket list, or a business trip with some added leisure, we've got you covered. Our expertise is matching you with the best providers for both domestic and international flights, ensuring you find the perfect airlines, hotels, and car rental companies for a seamless travel experience. Discover how we work to make travel planning effortless and tailored to your needs.

How does Cheapflights match me with the best flight options?

At Cheapflights, we specialize in connecting you with the right travel providers. By partnering with a wide variety of airlines, we ensure you have access to an extensive selection of flight options tailored to your preferences. Our advanced search technology evaluates millions of flights to find the best matches based on your specific needs, whether you’re looking for the most affordable fares, the shortest travel time, or specific airline amenities.

Can I get hotel and car rental options too?

Absolutely! Cheapflights goes beyond flights to include hotels and car rentals. We collaborate with top hotel chains and car rental companies to provide a wide range of choices. Our platform allows you to seamlessly compare different providers, ensuring you find accommodations and transportation that perfectly fit your travel style and budget.

What makes Cheapflights different?

What sets Cheapflights apart is our commitment to simplifying your travel planning by connecting you with the best travel providers. Our team of travel experts and enthusiasts is dedicated to helping you navigate the multitude of options available. We use sophisticated algorithms to bring you personalized recommendations, ensuring you find the best providers for your specific needs. Our 'Compare To' feature allows you to directly compare offerings from multiple airlines, hotels, and car rental companies side by side, giving you a clear view of what each one offers. This transparency and customization help you make informed decisions and optimize your travel experience.

Whether you're searching for the right airline, planning a domestic trip, or seeking comprehensive travel solutions, start your journey with Cheapflights. We are here to help you find the perfect travel providers to make your trip memorable and hassle-free.

Book flights to top destinations

Popular flight routes, book the cheapest flights for these popular flight routes recently found by fellow travelers, popular departure points, find flight tickets from airports most frequently chosen by other travelers, our latest travel tips and inspiration.

By Lauren Mack

By Jess Hopper

Find cheap flights from 1000s of airlines and travel agents

Cheap flights, like travel deals enter your email and we'll send them your way..

Popular destinations

Find your next stay

Search deals on hotels, homes, and much more...

Get inspiration for your next trip More

5 of the best hotels in los angeles.

From Hollywood to Beverly Hills discover 5 of the best hotels in Los Angeles for your stay

Get instant discounts

Destinations Bookers love

List your property

• Mobile version
• Your account
• Make changes online to your booking
• Customer Service Help
• Booking.com for Business
• Places of interest
• Guest Houses
• Unique places to stay
• All destinations
• All flight destinations
• All car rental locations
• All vacation destinations
• Discover monthly stays
• Travel articles
• Seasonal and holiday deals
• Traveller Review Awards
• Flight finder
• Restaurant reservations
• Booking.com for Travel Agents
• Coronavirus (COVID-19) FAQs
• About Booking.com
• Partner help
• Sustainability
• Press Center
• Safety Resource Center
• Investor relations
• Terms & Conditions
• Partner dispute
• How We Work
• Privacy & cookie statement
• Modern Slavery Statement
• Human Rights Statement
• Corporate contact
• Content guidelines and reporting

Booking.com is part of Booking Holdings Inc., the world leader in online travel and related services.

Verified reviews from real guests.

We have more than 70 million property reviews, all from real, verified guests .

How does it work?

It starts with a booking.

The only way to leave a review is to first make a booking. That's how we know our reviews come from real guests who have stayed at the property.

Followed by a trip

When guests stay at the property, they check out how quiet the room is, how friendly the staff is, and more.

And finally, a review

After their trip, guests tell us about their stay. We check for naughty words and verify the authenticity of all guest reviews before adding them to our site.

If you booked through us and want to leave a review, please sign in first.

Check-in date

Check-out date

Enable JavaScript

Please enable JavaScript to fully experience this site. How to enable JavaScript

Travel experience

Fly in style.

Flagship® First

Our most exclusive and personalized experience for long-distance travel.

• Flagship ® First International
• Flagship ® First Transcontinental

Flagship® Business

An elevated experience with special amenities for long-distance travel.

• Flagship ® Business International and Hawaii
• Flagship ® Business Transcontinental

The highest level of service on flights across the U.S.

The highest level of service on shorter-distance international flights.

Premium Economy

More space and amenities on select long-distance international, Hawaii and Alaska flights.

Main Cabin Extra

More legroom in the Main Cabin plus early boarding to start your trip off right.

Select your seat ahead of time and enjoy free entertainment to get you from point A to B.

Basic Economy

The lowest Main Cabin fare with some restrictions.

Find helpful information if your trip includes 1 or more flights with our partner airlines.

• British Airways
• Japan Airlines
• Qatar Airways

Inflight entertainment and Wi-Fi

Free entertainment

Stream hundreds of free movies and TV shows, music and more. Our exclusive partnerships include Apple TV+ and Apple Music, plus you can learn something new with content from Rosetta Stone and Skillshare.

What's playing on your flight Opens another site in a new window that may not meet accessibility guidelines.

Connect to inflight Wi-Fi

Need to check your email or get online in flight? Buy high-speed Wi-Fi on select domestic and international flights. If you fly often, save time and join the American Airlines Wi-Fi Subscription Plan.

• Does your flight have Wi-Fi?
• Wi-Fi and connectivity

You may also like...

• At the airport

DID YOU KNOW? You can save time and money by making changes to your trip online! Click here

Avelo Airlines – Book Cheap Flights Today

No change or cancellation fees.

Now booking through jan. 7, 2025.

You’ll receive our latest promo codes in our promotional emails.

Sign up now for low fares, on-time flights and smooth travels with Avelo.

• ✓ Early access to big Avelo sales
• ✓ Promotional offers and promo codes
• ✓ New route announcements
• ✓ Sweepstakes and prizes
• ✓ Schedule extensions

Enter your email address Enter your zip

You’ve successfully subscribed to receive Avelo goodies via email.

Watch your inbox for our next offer.

Welcome to Avelo!

• I want to book a:
• One Way Trip

Flight Calendar

Depart Date:

Return Date:

Adults Ages 15+

Only 10 Passengers allowed

• Low Fare Calendar

Earn up to a $200 Avelo statement credit

This exclusive Avelo-only offer includes these benefits:

• Up to $200 Avelo statement credit
• Free priority boarding on Avelo flights
• Earn 75K bonus miles

Everyday low fares

We're always looking for ways to lower fares and save you money.

Smaller, convenient airports

We fly into smaller airports that are easier to navigate and closer to home and your destination.

Reliable service

We pride ourselves in being amongst the industry leaders in on-time performance.

Free family seating

Families can travel with ease knowing children 14 and under will be seated with an accompanying adult at no extra cost. Learn More

Enjoy extra leg room

Comfortable Seating Options

If you value more space, one third of our seats offer the comfort of extra leg room.

Exclusive rates

Rental Car Deals

Drive your travel budget further, rent a car for less, do more.

Everyday Low Fares

New Cities & Routes

Check out the latest routes added to Avelo's network.

Where We Fly

We are growing fast. With several exciting new routes, Avelo flies direct to many popular destinations.

Word on the Tarmac

Thanks to the partnership with @AveloAir and our partners in the community, the New HVN is shining when it comes to our operations.

Being able to do that without the experience being brutal for Customers who don’t buy all the extras is a nifty trick. And it seems to be working well for them so far.

New Haven airport has an airline! I’m escaping New England winter for the weekend (HVN-SRQ) @AveloAir

My wife flew @AveloAir to/from MCO-ILM, they were amazing! The lady working the gate was very helpful and patient when she was running late because of the security check.

Flying @AveloAir for the first time today.

Santa Rosa is the happening hub for all there is to see, do, eat, drink, hike, bike, and explore in Sonoma County. And you can get there in a flash from PSP on @AveloAir! Book today at AveloAir.com, #FlyPSP #Avelo #VisitSantaRosa

What a great week celebrating @AveloAir inaugural flight from @flylansing, @LansingChamber business Roundtable hosted by @BWLComm and our last Exec Board meeting of 2022. Great things happening in the Lansing region #connect #grow #thrive

I just took my first @AveloAir flight (RDU -> New Haven). What a great experience. Flight crew and gate crew were very pleasant. Plane was tidy. Flight was on time. Well done.

It’s me, again, here to say that I love @AveloAir – this time for allowing for me fly home for thanksgiving for less than $50

I have had such good experiences with Avelo; only a few flights (so far), but I’m hooked!

Thank you to Duane @AveloAir who answered my customer service concerns with a positive response. @flybgm @MCO

Love Avelo almost like having a private jet that goes to Florida whenever I want : )

@aveloair just returned from Burbank this last weekend and the flight crews are top notch!!! Thank you!!!

Avelo crewmembers are awesome! Always so friendly and fun!

Great airline! I’ve been about 6 or 7 times back and forth to Burbank.

Had the best experience last week on #aveloairlines can’t wait to plan my next trip

I’m excited for this new airline and I have heard many wonderful recommendations from many who have flown with you. 

Best experience on Avelo New Haven to West Palm this weekend! Excellent customer service especially for my daughter who needed handicapped assistance

Might be my new favorite airline! And I haven’t even left for my trip yet!

My birthday + Avelo flight = good birthday 

We have flown Avelo 2 times in the past year and both were great!!

I flew this airline two weeks ago. This was only my second time flying so I was still so nervous. I loved this airline. So easy to check in and the staff were so friendly. 

My husband flies you every week to Florida and from New Haven. Flights canceled everywhere but not Avelo!

Honestly the coolest airline around. No competition in sight

I flew your new route Myrtle Beach to New Haven & return trip. It could not have been any easier! The flights were great! It was such a pleasure to get to my destinations quickly, comfortably, & with such awesome customer service. 

I flew you from New Haven to Charleston this Spring. Love, love, love how smooth and easy the trip was. No hassles driving to NY or Hartford. Keep up the good work!

Just flew last week. Wonderful flying experience and nice staff. Will definitely fly again.

Recently flew on Avelo for the first time and it was smooth. The staff members at the airport and on the flight were very accommodating and friendly. Great job!

MAJOR shouts to the flight attendants and nurses on the @aveloair flight from Orlando to New Haven this afternoon. They recongnized a person suffering from a medical emergency, and were quick to provide help before the plane made an emergency landing. Just incredible! 

Back from a fabulous trip to see family in Florida. I can’t say enough about @aveloair. It was easy peasy from #NewHaven & back

@aveloair I want to give a BIG THANK YOU to Duane at your reservation helpline. He was pleasant and helpful. I’ve been flying for over 30 years, and I have never had a good conversation with ANY airline’s Customer Service agent until today. Thank you!

@aveloair has been a great partner for Tweed, contributing to the airport’s development and expanding flights to and from New Haven. They started at 4 affordable routes and are growing to 14 this May. What a difference a year makes!

Explore Exciting Destinations with Affordable Flights

Flights to Cancun, Mexico (CUN)

Available 11/20 from Hartford, CT (BDL).

Flights to Fort Lauderdale / Miami, FL (FLL)

Available 8/23 from Wilmington, NC (ILM).

Flights to Montego Bay, Jamaica (MBJ)

Available 11/16 from Hartford, CT (BDL).

Flights to Myrtle Beach, SC (MYR)

Available 9/2 from Philadelphia / Wilmington, DE (ILG).

Flights to Medford / Rogue Valley, OR (MFR)

Available 9/15 from Los Angeles / Burbank, CA (BUR).

Flights to Bend / Redmond, OR (RDM)

Available 9/5 from Las Vegas, NV (LAS).

Flights to Portland / Salem, OR (SLE)

Flights to Bay Area / Sonoma, CA (STS)

Available 9/4 from Los Angeles / Burbank, CA (BUR).

Thrills & Adventure

Flights to Los Angeles / Burbank, CA (BUR)

Available 8/23 from Las Vegas, NV (LAS).

Flights to Orlando / Lakeland, FL (LAL)

Available 11/7 from Atlanta, GA (ATL).

Flights to Las Vegas, NV (LAS)

Available 8/25 from Los Angeles / Burbank, CA (BUR).

Flights to Orlando, FL (MCO)

Available 9/5 from Wilmington, NC (ILM).

Flights to Eureka / Arcata , CA (ACV)

Available 9/1 from Los Angeles / Burbank, CA (BUR).

Flights to Kalispell, MT (FCA)

Available 9/2 from Los Angeles / Burbank, CA (BUR).

Flights to Salt Lake City, UT (SLC)

Available 11/3 from Bay Area / Sonoma, CA (STS).

Flights to Traverse City, MI (TVC)

Available 8/24 from New Haven, CT (HVN).

Flights to New Haven, CT (HVN)

Available 9/9 from Washington DC / Baltimore, MD (BWI).

Flights to Philadelphia / Wilmington, DE (ILG)

Available 11/8 from Charlotte / Concord, NC (USA).

Flights to Raleigh-Durham, NC (RDU)

Available 8/31 from New Haven, CT (HVN).

Flights to Daytona Beach, FL (DAB)

Available 11/28 from Philadelphia / Wilmington, DE (ILG).

Flights to West Palm Beach, FL (PBI)

Flights to Fort Myers, FL (RSW)

Available 9/30 from Philadelphia / Wilmington, DE (ILG).

Flying is affordable with Avelo — Book, relax, and you’re there

Sign up now for low fares , convenient airports and smooth travels with Avelo.

† Avelo Airlines’ On-Time Performance rate is based on the U.S. Department of Transportation’s (DOT) industry standard for on-time performance. The DOT reports this metric as the percentage of an airline’s total scheduled flights that arrived at their destination within 15 minutes of their scheduled arrival time. Rankings are determined by comparing performance data from Anuvu ( anuvu.com ).

‡ Avelo Airlines’ Cancellation Rate is the percentage of the airline’s scheduled flights it canceled during the month/YTD. An airline’s cancellation rate is an essential industry standard for measuring its reliability. The lower the percentage of flights an airline cancels – the more dependable the airline is. Rankings are determined by comparing performance data from Anuvu ( anuvu.com ).

^ Seats and days are limited. Fares may vary by destination, flight, and day of week and won’t be available on some flights that operate during very busy travel times and holiday periods. Fares available as of the date listed and are subject to change until ticketed. Not valid on previously purchased itineraries. Additional fees for carry-on and checked bags, assigned seats and other optional services may apply. For full terms and conditions, please visit Contract of Carriage .

* 30% off SCHOOL promo code discount applies to round trip bookings only. Travel must be completed between 9/4/24 and 11/5/24. Must be purchased by 11:59 p.m. PT on 8/20/24. Expiration date cannot be extended. To receive promo savings, enter promo code on aveloair.com when you begin your search or on the payment page. Per the Department of Transportation (DOT), advertised fares must include all government taxes and fees. Please note, this discount applies to base fare only, and does not apply to government taxes or certain carrier-imposed fees. Promo code is not redeemable for cash, and in the case of reservation cancellations, the promo savings will be forfeited. Seats are limited. Fare rules, routes and schedules are subject to change without notice. Restrictions may apply. Not valid on previously purchased itineraries or combinable with other promotions. A $25 charge per seated traveler applies to all bookings or changes made through Avelo’s Customer Support Center. Additional fees for carry-on and checked bags, assigned seats and other optional services may apply. For full terms and conditions, please visit Contract of Carriage .

** Airfare prices are per segment, and include government taxes and fees. $79 fare is available from HVN to MSY departing between 12/‍5/‍2‍4 and 1‍2/1‍5/2‍4. Must be purchased by 11:‍59 p.‍m. P‍T on 8/21/‍2‍4. Seats and days are limited. Per the Department of Transportation (DOT), advertised fares must include all government taxes and fees. Fare rules, routes and schedules are subject to change without notice and until ticketed. Restrictions may apply. Not valid on previously purchased itineraries. A $25 charge per seated traveler applies to all bookings or changes made through Avelo’s Customer Support Center. Additional fees for carry-on and checked bags, assigned seats and other optional services may apply. For full terms and conditions, please visit Contract of Carriage .

I've flown on the only 2 all-business-class airlines in the world. It's like flying on a private jet — but less expensive.

• La Compagnie and Beond are the only two airlines that fly solely business-class Airbus planes.
• The model is historically unsuccessful, but the airlines are banking on high-demand niche markets.
• I think both are splurge-worthy for people who want a bougie-but-affordable travel experience.

All-business-class carriers are among the rarest airlines in operation — and that's because the business model historically doesn't work.

British Airways, BermudAir, Qatar Airways, and Singapore Airlines all previously tried these premium-focused planes , only to later ditch the system. The airlines cited challenges like high costs, fluctuating demand , and tough competition.

But the model hasn't died out yet . Two all-business-class airlines are in operation: France's La Compagnie and the Maldives-based Beond .

I've flown on both carriers, flying on La Compagnie from Paris to New Jersey in 2022 and then on Beond from Milan to Malé, the Maldives, in July 2023.

There were a few key differences, but I found both to be great alternatives to mainline competitors — and about as close as you can get to flying private with a commercial ticket.

Beond and La Compagnie have the same concept but fly in different markets.

While Beond is less than a year old , La Compagnie has been flying for a decade. Both operate Airbus narrowbody planes on long-haul flights to hot-spot destinations. Despite the age gap, they fly similarly limited routes.

Beond flies from Malé to Zurich, Munich, Milan, Dubai and Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The airline also has a fifth-freedom route between Zurich and Dubai.

La Compagnie connects New Jersey's Newark Liberty International Airport to Milan, Paris, and Nice, France.

Both companies have room for expansion, with Beond having said it hopes to eventually expand to places like Bangkok, Tokyo, and Perth, Australia.

Both companies market their brands as "premium leisure" with affordable fares.

Both airlines are attracting customers with round-trip business-class tickets that are cheaper than mainline competitors.

La Compagnie's ticket prices start at $2,400, while Beond's are about $2,000. Both have fare tiers that offer various perks, like lounge access and extra luggage.

A round-trip flight from Milan to Malé in mid September costs $1,900 on Beond. The same round-trip itinerary in business class on Qatar's and Emirates' websites is about $3,000 and $3,200, respectively, which includes layovers in Doha on Qatar and Dubai on Emirates.

A round-trip flight on La Compagnie between Newark and Paris for next month is about $3,500. The cheapest nonstop business-class route on Delta Air Lines between Kennedy Airport in New York and Paris Charles de Gaulle is about $4,500.

Each operates a tiny fleet of planes. La Compagnie's is more efficient.

Beond launched with a single 44-seater Airbus A319 that is 21 years old. The airline is actively retrofitting a second plane, this one a 22-year-old previous-generation Airbus A321-200, with 68 lie-flat seats, which is expected to enter service soon.

La Compagnie's fleet consists of two 76-seater next-generation Airbus A321neos that are just five years old. The airline said these aircrafts burn 30% less fuel than its previous Boeing 757 planes.

Beond can't fly every route nonstop.

La Compagnie's Airbus A321neos can easily make the transatlantic hop between the East Coast and Europe.

Beond's Airbus A319 has to stop for fuel at Al Maktoum International Airport, or Dubai World Central , between Europe and the Maldives. For my flight to and from Milan, passengers could stay on board for the hourlong stop while the plane was fueled, restocked, and recrewed.

I didn't mind the stop as it was more convenient than the layover that's typically required between Mal é and most European cities. There was no disembarking and traversing crowded terminals and no risk of missing a connecting flight because of a delay.

Each jet is branded in its airline's respective colors and equipped with lie-flat seats.

Beond and La Compagnie have both configured their planes with lie-flat seats in a 2-by-2 layout.

The downside is that passengers can't freely access the aisle when the seat's in bed mode without disturbing their neighbor.

I found that because the airlines are targeting leisure customers, most people on board are couples or families, making the chances of two solo people being next to each other low.

Seats have all the business-class basics, including a bed, storage, and power outlets.

There was little difference in the basics. I'm 5-foot-3 and easily fit in the beds, though most seats had small footwells that made sleeping on my stomach difficult.

Sleeping on my side or back was easy, though. Taller travelers on La Compagnie may want to book an exit-row seat for more legroom.

Both airlines lacked storage, with only a few small nooks and slots for things like extra clothes or electronics.

Passengers can book an ottoman seat for extra room on Beond.

There are eight special seats on Beond, four each in the first and exit rows. These have an ottoman that can double as a companion seat and a larger footwell for the bed.

La Compagnie offers extra-legroom seats but doesn't have the ottoman perk.

The airlines provide good linens and amenity kits.

Both companies provided blankets, an eyemask, a mattress cover, and pillows for sleeping. There were also dental kits and other toiletries for freshening up.

Beond's blanket was the softest I'd ever used on a plane, but the pillow on La Compagnie was more plush.

La Compagnie offers a key perk that Beond doesn't: a seatback screen.

Most business classes have seatback screens with an accompanying remote, and La Compagnie was no different.

Beond, on the other hand, provided an iPad loaded with content that could be propped on a tablet holder in front of the seat. The table was connected to noise-canceling Beats, which was the best set of headphones I've ever had in business class.

Unpopular opinion: I preferred Beond's version.

I've raved that the tablet holder on American Airlines is perfect for my travel preference of catching up on reality TV, and it's the same case with Beond.

I came prepared for my flight with my Kindle tablet. It fit perfectly in the little holder, and I could even connect it to the provided headphones.

Beond lacks a middle divider, a headrest, and WiFi.

While I preferred Beond's in-flight-entertainment setup, I thought La Compagnie's seat was more comfortable because of the headrest and it was a little more private.

The middle divider provides more privacy when solo travelers get stuck next to a stranger. Beond's planes lacked this, but I still found that passengers were largely hidden away when sleeping.

There was no internet on Beond, while La Compagnie's was fast and free. Beond targerts leisure customers, so I understand it may not be a priority, but adding WiFi would make it more competitive .

Beond's technology is behind.

Beond launched in November and doesn't yet have an online-check-in system, so I had to visit the ticket counter before each flight to get my boarding pass.

La Compagnie let me get my boarding pass online so I could go straight to security. I suspect the check-in efficiency is on Beond's to-do list, but for now, manual it is.

La Compagnie has a gastronomy focus.

Part of La Compagnie's business model is partnering with Michelin-rated chefs to produce high-quality meals. I had two meals on La Compagnie, including the larger main meal and a smaller second one, where I could choose pastries or a tomato sandwich.

The main meal was the star, consisting of a cheese platter, a salmon-salad appetizer, a scallop entrée topped with truffles, pastries, and an apple tart.

All the meals were incredible , and it was easy to see how food-focused the airline was.

Beond's dining was delicious, too. There was a lot to enjoy because of the long flights.

Because of the fuel stop, my Milan-Malé itinerary included four legs. I got one large meal on each, which meant I got to enjoy four nice selections of bread, appetizers, main courses, and desserts.

The company catered lobster tail on one of the flights, which was one of the best dishes I've ever had on a plane. Everything from chicken, cold cuts, and pasta to seafood, fruit, and brisket was also available.

Minus the goose-liver pâté, which I think is an acquired taste, I enjoyed every bite of food on Beond.

After flying on both airlines, I find it's like sharing a private jet.

Unlike a typical commercial plane that's split into first/business class and economy, everyone flying Beond and La Compagnie gets a bed and delicious food for a few thousand dollars. And the fewer seats on the planes mean check-in is quick, without any " gate lice " while boarding or traffic jams while deplaning.

Passengers won't get the truly private perk of bypassing security . But both airlines' lounge access for most fares and fast-track security and passport control at participating airports make the experience less stressful overall.

If you have a flexible budget and are eyeing a destination served by Beond or La Compagnie, I think it's worth splurging for the unique flying experience. And it could be cheaper and more convenient than a competitor — especially if it negates a layover.

I'm not convinced this business model can survive.

Mainline carriers are better equipped to respond to cost and demand changes because they can strategically price their economy and first/business cabins to offset dips in one or the other.

While my concerns about this business model apply to both airlines, I think Beond is in a tougher position since it's brand-new and operates in a seasonal market at a time when operating prices are more expensive than ever .

La Compagnie recently celebrated its 10th anniversary and reported its first profitable year in 2022.

La Compagnie also makes money via cargo operations and chartering a jet for luxury tourism. Beond has announced similar plans to rent out its Airbus fleet.

You also don't get the same protections offered by a mainline carrier.

La Compagnie and Beond don't operate their flights every day , meaning there's less flexibility. There are few options if a maintenance issue takes either airline's tiny fleet out of service.

La Compagnie has partnered with the low-cost airline easyJet for connections to places like Rome and Geneva. Beond doesn't partner with other airlines at this point.

The new Airbus A321XLR could open new opportunities for both carriers.

La Compagnie CEO Christian Vernet said in 2021 that the Airbus A321XLR, expected to start flying this year, would be a "good fit" for the carrier.

"That aircraft is going to be a bit better as far as performance is concerned, in terms of range, because it has more fuel, and it is supposed to be a bit lighter than the classic LR," he said.

Beond is also eyeing the jet. Company CEO Tero Taskila told Aerotime Hub in May that most of the 32 planes that Beond hopes to fly by 2035 will be longer-ranged A321neoLRs and A321XLRs , which would eliminate the fuel stop and open new markets.

• Main content