Many travelers looking for flights, especially to destinations formerly served by Mexican airline Interjet, might be searching for ways to book with them. However, it’s important to understand that Interjet has ceased all operations. This means you cannot book new flights or manage existing reservations with Interjet. This guide will clarify Interjet’s status and provide you with practical, actionable steps to successfully find and book flights with other airlines.
Understanding Interjet’s Operational Status
Interjet, a prominent Mexican low-cost airline, regrettably suspended all flight operations in December 2020. Following financial difficulties and a period of operational uncertainty, the airline officially declared bankruptcy in April 2023. This permanent cessation of services means that Interjet is no longer flying, and its booking systems are offline.
Why You Cannot Book Flights on Interjet Anymore
The primary reason you cannot book flights on Interjet is that the airline no longer exists as an operational carrier. Its planes are grounded, and its staff have been disbursed. Any website or service claiming to book new flights on Interjet is not legitimate and should be avoided. Your best course of action is to look for alternative airlines that serve your desired routes.
How to Find and Book Flights with Alternative Airlines
Since Interjet is no longer an option, the focus shifts to effectively finding and booking flights with other reputable airlines. The process is generally straightforward, whether you prefer using an airline’s direct website or an online travel agency.
Step 1: Identify Your Travel Needs
Before you begin searching, clearly define your travel requirements. This includes your departure and arrival airports, preferred travel dates, number of passengers, and any specific needs like baggage allowances or seat preferences. Having this information ready will streamline your search process.
Step 2: Utilize Online Flight Search Engines and Comparison Sites
Start your search using popular online flight comparison websites. These platforms aggregate flight information from numerous airlines and online travel agencies, allowing you to compare prices and itineraries quickly. Examples include Google Flights, Skyscanner, Kayak, and Expedia. These tools are excellent for getting an overview of available options and average costs.
- Input your details: Enter your origin, destination, dates, and number of passengers.
- Filter results: Use filters to narrow down options by airline, price range, number of stops, departure/arrival times, and more.
- Compare prices: Pay close attention to the total cost, including any potential fees for baggage or seat selection.
Step 3: Explore Direct Airline Websites
Once you’ve identified a few potential airlines or routes from your comparison search, it’s often a good idea to visit the airline’s official website directly. Sometimes, airlines offer exclusive deals or slightly lower prices on their own sites compared to third-party platforms. Additionally, booking directly with the airline can simplify any future changes or customer service inquiries.
- Major Airlines: For routes previously served by Interjet (often to and from Mexico), consider major Mexican airlines like Aeromexico or Volaris, or international carriers such as United Airlines, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, or Southwest Airlines, depending on your specific route.
- Low-Cost Carriers: Don’t overlook other low-cost options that might operate similar routes, as they often provide competitive pricing.
Step 4: Understand Booking Policies and Inclusions
Before finalizing your purchase, always review the airline’s policies regarding baggage, seat selection, change fees, and cancellation terms. Low-cost carriers, in particular, often charge extra for services that might be included with traditional airlines. Ensure you understand what is covered in your ticket price to avoid unexpected costs.
- Baggage: Check carry-on and checked baggage allowances and associated fees.
- Seat Selection: Some airlines charge for advance seat assignments.
- Flexibility: Understand the costs and procedures for changing or canceling your flight.
- Travel Insurance: Consider purchasing travel insurance, especially for international trips, to protect against unforeseen circumstances.
Step 5: Complete Your Booking
Once you’ve selected your preferred flight, proceed with the booking. You will typically need to provide passenger details, contact information, and payment information. Double-check all entered information for accuracy before confirming your purchase. After booking, you should receive a confirmation email with your itinerary and e-ticket number.
Tips for Finding Good Flight Deals
Finding affordable airfare often requires a bit of strategy. Here are some general tips:
- Be Flexible with Dates: If possible, adjust your travel dates by a few days to find lower prices. Mid-week flights are often cheaper than weekend travel.
- Book in Advance: Generally, booking several weeks or months ahead can secure better rates, especially for popular routes.
- Consider Nearby Airports: Sometimes flying into or out of a smaller airport near your desired destination can be more economical.
- Sign Up for Price Alerts: Many flight comparison sites offer email alerts that notify you when prices for your desired route change.
- Clear Your Browser Cookies: Some theories suggest that flight prices can increase if you repeatedly search for the same route. Clearing cookies or using incognito/private browsing mode might help.
Common Questions About Booking Flights
What information do I need to book a flight?
You will typically need the full legal name (as it appears on your ID), date of birth, gender, and contact information (email and phone number) for each passenger. For international travel, passport details may also be required during booking or check-in.
Is it safe to book flights online?
Yes, booking flights online through official airline websites or reputable online travel agencies is generally safe. Always ensure the website address begins with ‘https://’ and look for a padlock icon in your browser’s address bar, indicating a secure connection.
What should I do if my flight is canceled or delayed?
If your flight is canceled or significantly delayed, contact the airline directly. They are responsible for providing options such as rebooking on another flight, offering a refund, or providing accommodations if an overnight stay is required due to their fault.
Conclusion
While Interjet is no longer an option for air travel, the process of finding and booking flights with other airlines remains straightforward and accessible. By using online comparison tools, visiting direct airline websites, and being mindful of booking policies, you can successfully plan your next trip. Always prioritize reputable sources for booking and stay informed about travel requirements for your destination. For more helpful articles on travel planning and other everyday questions, explore the wide range of guides available on SearchAndHelp.com.