Why are return flights cheaper to book than one way tickets? and is it ok to book one and just not turn up ?

Question

Flying from Montreal to london in May, I want to stay in england as i am a british citizen. It is much cheaper to buy a return ticket than a one way ticket. Why is that? and is it ok to buy a return ticket and just not show up for the return flight?

Answer 1

Buy the return ticket and if you do not show up it is fine. The airlines always overbook flights because of no shows.

Answer 2

Correct me if I'm wrong, but I'm guessing your flight is on a Canadian or American airline. Usually airlines flying out of their hub (home base) to international destinations will have more expensive fares going away from their hub. Try looking for one-way fares from either a British or European airline to London and see what you come up with. Generally, flights are not as full on the return to their hub as they are on the way out, thus return flights to the hub are usually a better price. I recently flew one-way to Asia and bought a ticket for exactly half price on an Asian airline. As far as not showing up for a return flight, it's probably best to inform the airline that you won't be flying, you may incur a fee depending on the ticket you buy, but also may be able to use the ticket at a later date.Good luck.

Answer 3

No! If you book a flight and don't show up, the "Airline Police" will hunt you down and make you fly!

(just kidding!) No one can make you get on an airplane.

Answer 4

To give incentiive to passengers as it would help airlines to better plan their operations. Yes you may not show up but some airlines may fine you for a no show penalty.

Answer 5

While you can do this it has been much harder since 9/11 to escape notice and not face questioning from the local or international police. You need to determine if it's worth it based on your nationality and heritage. You will most definitely get a call from the police though so be ready.