For every traveler, finding unbelievably cheap flight deals feels like winning the lottery—but what if those jaw-dropping prices weren’t mistakes on your part, but on the airline’s? Welcome to the world of error-fare flights, one of the travel industry’s best-kept secrets. These are extremely discounted fares caused by technical glitches, currency conversion issues, or human error. And yes, thousands of travelers use them every year to fly to dream destinations for a fraction of the cost.
In this blog, you’ll learn what error fares are, why they happen, how to find them, and the smartest ways to book without losing the deal. If you’re looking to save money, travel more often, and book flights like a pro, this guide is for you.
What Exactly Are Error-Fare Flights?
An error fare is a flight ticket listed at an unusually low price due to a mistake on the part of the airline or online travel agency (OTA). Instead of paying $800 for a ticket to Europe, you may see it for $90 or even $30. These prices are not promotions—they’re accidents.
Common causes include:
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Technical system glitches
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Currency conversion errors
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Data input mistakes (e.g., missing zeros)
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Fuel surcharge miscalculations
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Discount code system bugs
Because these mistakes don’t happen often and last for only a short time, travelers who know how to spot and book early enjoy the biggest wins.
Why Error Fares Disappear Quickly
Before learning how to score one, it’s important to understand the urgency behind them. Error fares typically last:
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30 minutes to a few hours
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Sometimes less when social media posts go viral
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Occasionally up to 24 hours if the airline doesn’t detect it early
This means speed is everything. The earlier you know, the better your chances of booking the flight before the airline corrects the mistake.
Top Reasons Airlines Sometimes Honor Error Fares
Many travelers wonder, “If it’s a mistake, won’t the airline cancel?”
Not always.
While airlines sometimes revoke incorrect fares, many also decide to honor them because:
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The cost of canceling may be higher than keeping the customers
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They don’t want bad PR
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Some countries require airlines to honor displayed prices
To increase your chances of keeping your ticket valid, follow the booking tips later in this guide.
Where to Find Error-Fare Flights: Best Tools and Websites
You don’t need to search manually across airline websites—error fare tools help you catch deals early. Here are the top platforms for spotting them fast:
1. Secret Flying
One of the most reliable sources for error fares, updated all day with global deals.
2. Airfare Watchdog
Great for U.S.-based travelers, with alerts sent directly to your inbox.
3. Fly4Free
Covers Europe, Asia, Africa, and North America, including rare ultra-low fares.
4. The Flight Deal
Specializes in curated error fares and “mistake sales” from major airlines.
5. Google Flights Alerts
Not specifically for error fares but helpful for tracking sudden drastic price drops.
6. Deal Communities (Reddit’s r/flightdeals)
A global community where travelers share real-time deals and error fares.
For the best results, subscribe to multiple alerts—what one platform misses, another will catch.
How to Spot an Error Fare Instantly
Even without alerts, you can recognize an error fare when:
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The price is extremely lower than the route’s usual cost
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The ticket includes extras (checked luggage, flexible dates) unexpectedly
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The fare is inconsistent across booking sites
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Taxes and fees seem unusually low
For example, a $25 flight from Lagos to London or a $40 New York–Tokyo fare is almost certainly an error.
Smart Tips to Quickly Book an Error Fare Before It’s Gone
1. Book Immediately—Don’t Overthink It
Error fares do not wait. If you hesitate, the airline will fix the mistake before you check out. There’s no time for planning or consulting friends—book first, confirm plans later.
2. Avoid Adding Extras During Checkout
Stick to the base fare. The airline might detect the mistake if you add luggage or seat selection.
3. Book Through the Airline When Possible
While OTAs sometimes list more errors, booking directly with the airline reduces cancellation risks.
4. Use a Credit Card with Free Cancellation or Travel Protection
This helps you avoid losing money if your ticket gets voided later.
5. Don’t Contact the Airline After Booking
Many beginners make the mistake of calling to confirm. This draws attention to the error and increases chances of cancellation.
What Happens After You Successfully Book?
Here’s the process most travelers follow after landing an error fare:
Step 1: Wait 24–72 Hours
Airlines usually detect and fix the mistake within this period. If they decide to cancel, you’ll get an email notification.
Step 2: Don’t Make Non-Refundable Plans Yet
Avoid booking hotels or tours until your ticket is fully confirmed.
Step 3: Watch for Ticket Issuance
Once you receive your E-ticket number, the airline is more likely to honor the booking.
Step 4: Celebrate When You Receive the Final Confirmation
Many people have flown business class, crossed continents, or visited dream destinations using error fares—yours could be one of the lucky ones.
How to Increase Your Chances of Keeping an Error Fare
Airlines sometimes choose to cancel, but you can reduce your chances of being affected by:
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Booking roundtrips instead of one-way tickets
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Choosing routes operated by major airlines
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Avoiding duplicate bookings
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Using trusted OTAs
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Selecting dates closer to the current period (far future dates are more likely to be flagged)
The more your booking looks “normal,” the safer it is.
Are Error Fares Legal?
Error fares are legal to book. Whether the airline must honor the deal depends on:
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Consumer protection laws in the destination country
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Airline policies
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Whether a ticket number was issued
Most of the time, airlines either accept the loss or offer compensation if they cancel.
Conclusion
Error-fare flights are one of the best opportunities for travelers to explore the world without breaking the bank. While they require speed, flexibility, and smart booking strategies, they reward you with huge savings and unforgettable adventures. With this guide, you now understand how to identify error fares, where to find them, how to book fast, and how to protect your ticket from cancellation.
Whether you’re dreaming of Paris, Dubai, Tokyo, or Cape Town, your next almost-free flight might be just one alert away.
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