Skiplagged, the controversial travel website known for helping users find hidden-city fares, has vowed to continue its operations despite a recent legal setback. On October 15, a judge ruled in favor of American Airlines, awarding the airline $9.4 million in damages for copyright infringement and “ill-gotten” revenue related to the practice of hidden-city ticketing.
Understanding Hidden-City Ticketing
Hidden-city ticketing, often referred to as skiplagging, allows travelers to book flights with layovers and disembark at the layover city instead of the final destination. This practice can significantly reduce airfare costs, as airlines often price direct flights higher than those with stopovers. For example, a flight from New York to Chicago via Dulles might be cheaper than a direct flight to Dulles, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious travelers.
The Legal Battle
American Airlines filed the lawsuit against Skiplagged in August 2023, claiming that the website infringed on its copyright by using the airline’s logo and profiting from hidden-city ticketing. The court ruled that Skiplagged must pay $4.7 million for copyright infringement and another $4.7 million for revenue deemed “ill-gotten.”Despite this ruling, Skiplagged CEO Aktarer Zaman stated that the website will continue to provide users with access to hidden-city fares. He emphasized that the company remains free to operate its business without American’s logo and will keep offering consumers information on all available routes and fares.
Skiplagged’s Business Model
Skiplagged generates revenue by charging a service fee for finding one-way hidden-city itineraries. This service allows customers to save money by bypassing higher-priced direct flights. The website also warns users about potential risks associated with skiplagging, such as having their return flights canceled or being barred from future travel with the airline.
Industry Response
American Airlines expressed satisfaction with the court’s decision, viewing it as a crucial step in protecting its intellectual property and brand integrity. However, they have indicated that they may appeal the court’s decision regarding some claims that were dismissed.This ruling marks a significant moment in the ongoing conflict between airlines and websites promoting skiplagging. While American Airlines is the first US airline to win a lawsuit against Skiplagged, previous attempts by other airlines, such as United Airlines and Southwest Airlines, have either been dismissed or settled out of court.
Conclusion
As Skiplagged navigates this legal challenge, it remains committed to helping travelers find cost-effective flight options through hidden-city ticketing. While airlines continue to push back against this practice, travelers seeking savings may still find value in Skiplagged’s offerings—though they should remain aware of the associated risks.
