Don't Be Fooled by an Offer of Cheap Air Tickets!

I guess it is a sign of the times - I never thought I would write an article simply as a result of a you-tube contribution. I know nothing about the group or what prompted the Irish ditty that resulted from a similar experience to one that I experienced some years ago. I know if I give you the link at the start of this article - you will be too busy laughing to return to finish it.

I booked a Ryan Air ticket for $1.00 (The Irish national Airline) from England to Malta a few years ago and was thrilled until I discovered all the extra charges. I should point out that there are many European airlines that appear to offer amazing discounts until you read the fine print.

I recall on one trip I was transporting my PC to the Island of Malta, where I intended to stay for a couple of years. I packed it in an extra suitcase which gave me my allowed; two baggage compartment pieces and one carry-on. I was traveling the USA to London leg with Virgin Atlantic Airlines, who by the way fly direct to London from my home here in Las Vegas.

Everything went smoothly until I attempted to check in at London airport with Air Malta for the final leg of my journey.

"I'm sorry Sir, you are over our baggage allowance. We only allow one carry on and one stowed bag. You will have to pay extra for the extra bag."

"How much" I asked.

She checked the weight " That will be $190.00" she said without batting an eyelid.

"But I only paid $130.00 for my flight return ticket? I could buy an additional ticket cheaper and the bag would fly free!" I exclaimed.

"I'm sorry Sir, I don't make the rules", she replied. "Your bag could not fly alone anyway without a passenger."

Next time I'll just bring my hard drive I muttered as I forked over my credit card.

Rule #1- If you are changing airlines mid journey - check their terms and conditions.

A couple of years later, we were visiting London from our home at that time in Spain.

This time the discount airline was Monarch Air.

We arrived at the airport nice and early and had to wait, strangely it seamed at the time, for someone from Monarch to arrive.

When they eventually turned up they were equally surprised to see us. It appeared there were NO Monarch flights due to depart that day!!!

Stupidly I had not checked the automatic date box that appeared on their web site and I had booked our flight 12 months ahead - Next year! She jokingly asked if we wished to wait?

Needless to say our discount ticket was non refundable and we had to purchase a full priced ticket for the following day!

Rule #2 - Make sure you check your flight details (including the date) before you press 'confirm' and pay for it!

Here is the link. (I hope you speak Irish)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HPyl2tOaKxM

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g3so6AJe4UQ

Enjoy your travels.

Dr. Peter J. Shield PhD (http://pjshield.com )