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Comment by Naga | Hacker News Reader

This is really interesting. As a non-U.S. based and infrequent traveller, I had always just assumed that you lost the value of the ticket if you missed the trip. I never really understood sitcoms where no one seems to care if they missed their flights or not, but this would make a lot of sense.

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Sitcoms aren't set in reality in general though. People who are unemployed actors live in $1M apartments in Manhattan, for example.

I've missed maybe five or so domestic flights on "legacy" US airlines (American/Delta/United). If I recall correctly, on all but one of those I was rebooked. On the remaining one I was not rebooked; the airline tried to accommodate me but they couldn't get me where I was going in time for the thing I was going to.

That being said, I do care if I miss my flight, because it's obviously a pain even if you do get rebooked!

This is why, as a UK based traveller, I aim to get to the airport for international flights so that I can check in when checkin opens 3 hours before the flight.

At least I'm usually sat in a comfortable lounge for the extra time, and can get a few things done, or just relax and read.

Most US based airlines will charge you a rebooking fee however, so it’s not completely hassle free. It’s often around $80-100 USD. Southwest Airlines is the only major carrier I know that does not charge this fee.

Surprisingly, I've never been charged this fee (and I'd remember). I don't know why. In particular I don't have any sort of status with the airlines.

Having flow a lot after living in different countries, the US major airlines used to be pretty flexible compared to others. I can recall landing at a connecting airport, strolling up to a gate for an earlier flight and asking if I could switch and after checking it was usually “sure”. Missed flights rebooked, etc.

I recall connecting in Vancouver with Air Canada and asking the same and the answer was “thatll be $130 to change your ticket”. This is with a half empty flight leaving in 30 min.

I know United started charging some fee for last minute flight changes, but it’s way better than other airlines.

> I can recall landing at a connecting airport, strolling up to a gate for an earlier flight and asking if I could switch and after checking it was usually “sure”.

They kinda like it when you do this: it gives them more flexibility. Better to keep the later flights in the day emptier just in case there’s a sudden need. And reduces their chances of owing you compensation.

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