Definition of Advance Purchase Requirement
Advance purchase requirement refers to the condition or policy set by airlines that requires passengers to purchase their tickets a specified number of days before the scheduled departure of the flight. This condition is part of the fare rules determined by the airline and may vary depending on the airline, route, and type of fare selected.
The main purpose of the advance purchase requirement is to encourage passengers to book their flights in advance and enable airlines to plan their operations and manage their inventory effectively. Furthermore, it allows airlines to offer lower fares to passengers who are willing to book early, thus increasing their competitiveness in the market.
The minimum number of days required for advance purchase can vary and range from a few days to several weeks or even months. For example, some airlines may require passengers to purchase tickets at least 21 days before departure to qualify for a specific fare, while others may allow bookings to be made up to the day of departure.
Passengers who fail to comply with the advance purchase requirement may face restrictions or penalties, such as higher fares or limited availability of seats. Therefore, it is essential for passengers to read and understand the fare rules, including the advance purchase requirement, before booking their flights to avoid any inconvenience or additional costs.
In summary, the advance purchase requirement is a common practice in the airline industry, which benefits both passengers and airlines, as it allows for better planning and management of flight schedules and fares.
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