Whether it is cheaper to buy tickets directly from the airline or through a third-party website depends on a variety of factors, such as the airline, destination, and time of year. Here are some points to consider:
No extra fees: When you buy tickets directly from the airline, you may avoid extra fees that are sometimes charged by third-party booking websites.
Direct communication: By booking directly with the airline, you can communicate directly with the airline if you have any questions or issues with your flight.
Price matching: Some airlines offer price-matching guarantees, which means that if you find a cheaper price on a third-party website, they will match that price.
Special offers: Airlines may offer special deals and promotions that are only available when booking directly through their website.
Loyalty programs: If you are a member of an airline's loyalty program, you may be able to earn points or miles by booking directly through their website.
However, there are also some potential drawbacks to booking directly with the airline:
Limited options: Airlines may not always have the cheapest prices for flights, and third-party websites may offer more options for airlines, routes, and prices.
Inconvenience: Booking directly with the airline can be more time-consuming than booking through a third-party website, especially if you are comparing prices across multiple airlines.
No price guarantees: Some airlines do not offer price guarantees, which means that the price you see when booking may not be the cheapest price available.
Limited customer service: Airlines may have limited customer service hours or options, especially if you need to make changes to your booking or have issues with your flight.
No refund policy: Some airlines may have strict refund policies or no refund policy at all, which can be a risk if you need to cancel your trip.
Overall, it's important to compare prices and options across both airline websites and third-party booking websites to find the best deal for your travel needs.