Unraveling Aviation Misconceptions: Errors Unveiled in Air Hacks Report
Saturday is the golden ticket for booking international flights, according to a joint study by Expedia, ARC, and OAG. This revelation, along with other flight booking myths, has been debunked in the study, providing valuable insights for savvy travelers.
Contrary to popular belief, booking too far in advance doesn't guarantee cheaper flights. The best prices for international tickets are typically found about six to seven weeks before departure. This means that last-minute bookings could potentially save you money.
Another myth busted is that weekend flights are more expensive. In fact, booking on Saturday instead of Friday can save up to 19%, and starting your vacation on Friday instead of Monday can save up to 18%. Monday, however, is the most expensive departure day for international travel.
Myth 1, that the earlier you book a flight, the cheaper it is, is also not true. Myth 2, that flight prices are unpredictable, has also been debunked.
Modern technology has made it easier to keep track of fluctuating prices. Many booking platforms have 'flight tracker' features that automatically monitor price changes and notify you via push notification when it's the best time to book.
The study also highlighted a trend among German travelers. They are increasingly drawn to lesser-known but charming places with unique character. Less well-known but increasingly popular European destinations among German travelers showing a significant rise in search interest in recent years include the Bohemian Switzerland region in the Czech Republic, Slovenia (e.g., Portorož), and Poland (e.g., Gdańsk, Masurian Lakes), along with parts of Portugal and Romania.
Praia (Cape Verde), Bastia and Ajaccio (both Corsica), Milos (Greece), and Cagliari (Sardinia) are also gaining popularity among German travelers. Other destinations worth mentioning are Antwerp in Belgium, the Greek island of Skiathos, and Trieste in Italy.
When it comes to flight delays, Germany has the shortest, with an average delay of around 169 minutes in 2024. Japan has the shortest flight delays, with an average delay of 107 minutes. On the other hand, Mexico leads in flight delays, with an average delay of 200 minutes. France has an average flight delay of 179 minutes, while Canada and the US have an average flight delay of 174 minutes and 172 minutes respectively.
Booking flight and hotel together is not a myth. On average, you can save more than 200 euros by doing so. Singapore has the second-shortest flight delays, with an average delay of 103 minutes.
In conclusion, the study provides valuable insights for travelers, debunking common flight booking myths and highlighting the trend of German travelers discovering lesser-known but charming European destinations. So, the next time you plan a trip, remember to book on Saturday, start your vacation on Friday, and explore the hidden gems of Europe.