7 factors to consider before selecting airline to fly with

When planning a trip, one of the most crucial decisions you’ll make is choosing which airline to fly with, as making the right choice can make a significant difference in your overall travel experience. 

While it might be tempting to simply go with the cheapest option, several other factors can significantly impact your comfort, convenience, and overall travel experience. From safety records to ticket prices, service quality, and hidden costs, selecting the right airline requires careful consideration. 

In this article, there are important factors to consider before selecting an airline to fly with. 

1. Safety Records

The most important factor to consider when selecting an airline to fly with is the safety record. 

Your safety should always be a top priority for you. So, before booking a flight with an airline, you should research the airline’s safety history, including past incidents and compliance with aviation standards. 

2. Ticket Prices And Hidden Costs

While budget is a key concern for most travellers, the cheapest ticket may not always offer the best value. 

It is important that in the process of selecting an airline, you look beyond the base fare and consider additional fees for baggage, seat selection, meals, and flight changes.

READ ALSO: 8 travel hacks Airlines don’t want you to know

3. Punctuality And Reliability

Have you ever missed an important appointment as a result of the unreliability and laxity of an airline? If your answer is in the affirmative, then you know better that punctuality and reliability are factors you shouldn’t joke with when selecting an airline to fly with. 

An airline’s on-time performance is a critical factor, especially if you are travelling for business purposes.

You should always go for airlines with a good track record for punctuality as this reduces the risk of delays and missed connecting flights. 

4. Flight Schedule And Connectivity

Another factor to consider when selecting an airline is the flight schedule and connectivity. You wouldn’t want to go with an airline with several hours as layover duration and several connecting flights to catch up with, when you can choose another with a direct flight to your destination. 

Before booking that flight, check the airline’s flight schedules to see if they match your itinerary, and if you are embarking on an international trip, airlines with better global connectivity and alliances are the best.

5. Customer Reviews And Ratings 

You can never go wrong with checking out reviews and ratings before selecting an airline.

Read reviews and ratings on popular platforms like Skytrax or TripAdvisor to gauge how an airline handles delays, cancellations, and customer inquiries. 

Booking your flight with an airline that has responsive and helpful customer support can make unforeseen emergencies more manageable.

6. Onboard Comfort, Convenience and Amenities

Onboard comfort, convenience, and amenities are also factors to consider when selecting an airline to fly with. 

Evaluate what the airline offers in terms of seat space, in-flight entertainment, meals, and Wi-Fi. 

Long-haul travellers (those embarking on trips that last longer than 7 hours) especially should consider comfort as a priority.  

7. Baggage Allowance

Different airlines have varying policies on baggage. Check both the carry-on and checked-in luggage limits, and the associated fees for excess baggage. Some airlines offer generous allowances, while others are more restrictive. So, look before you leap.

Other factors to consider include health and safety protocols, frequent flyer program, environmental commitment, quality of airline, overall reputation, etc.

Choosing the right airline involves more than just comparing prices. By considering factors such as safety, service quality, flight schedule, and overall value, you can ensure a more pleasant and stress-free travel experience.