10 ways to buy cheap flights

Two passengers sitting side by side on the same plane may have paid very different prices. Airlines change fares several times a day based on demand, dates and how many seats are left. The good news: a few simple habits help you win this game.

1. Be flexible with dates

A day or two can change the price a lot. Midweek flights (Tuesday, Wednesday) are usually cheaper than weekends. The “Nearby dates” bar above the search results shows neighbouring days at a glance.

2. Book early, but not too early

For short flights, 3–8 weeks ahead is usually the sweet spot; for long-haul, 2–4 months. Waiting until the last days rarely saves money.

3. Compare several sellers

The same ticket can cost differently on the airline’s own site and at agencies. Airline.az shows offers from hundreds of sellers in one place — you pick the cheapest and buy directly on its site.

4. Check baggage in advance

The cheapest fare often includes only a cabin bag. If you travel with a suitcase, compare the fare with baggage right away: paying at the airport costs more.

5. Consider connecting flights

Direct flights are convenient, but one connection can make a route much cheaper. Watch the layover time: 1.5–4 hours is usually ideal.

6. Look at nearby airports

Big cities often have several airports. Istanbul, for example, has both Istanbul (IST) and Sabiha Gökçen (SAW) — prices can differ.

7. Check return trips separately

Two one-way tickets are sometimes cheaper than a round trip, especially with different airlines.

8. Watch the price

Save your search and follow the price for a few days. Prices can go down too — don’t rush, but don’t wait too long either.

9. Read the fare rules

Change and refund rules depend on the fare. If your plans aren’t fixed, a slightly pricier but changeable fare can end up cheaper.

10. Mind the season

Prices rise during holidays and school breaks. Flying a week or two before or after the peak is both cheaper and calmer.

Tip: before you search, pick a few destinations and check the “Hot deals” section — the cheapest offers from Baku are collected there.