When Should You Book a Flight Last-Minute? Upgraded Points Reveals Best Airlines and Routes for Spontaneous Travelers

Study finds many last-minute fares can be significantly cheaper.

AUSTIN, Texas, April 1, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Upgraded Points' newest study challenges conventional airfare booking strategies by analyzing thousands of flights across some of the busiest domestic routes. The data reveals that while some airlines increase prices as departure time nears, other carriers actually reward last-minute bookings with lower fares. Waiting until the last minute to book a flight can be a savvy money-saving strategy or an expensive misstep, depending on routes and airlines.

"When it comes to buying tickets at the last minute, precise timing does matter – but not in the way that most travelers think," said Keri Stooksbury, editor-in-chief at Upgraded Points. "Knowledge is key, and by understanding which airlines and routes offer genuine last-minute savings, consumers can make smarter booking decisions and potentially save a significant amount on airfare."

Study Methodology

To identify the best airlines for last-minute bookings, the study gathered daily Google Flights airfare data for 10 of the busiest U.S. domestic routes over a two-week period, analyzing over 21,000 flights. All "last-minute" fares reflect tickets booked exactly one week before departure. These fares were then compared to established averages from previous airline cost studies to determine how prices shift when booking at the last minute.

Top Budget-Friendly Airlines for Last-Minute One-Way Travel

• Spirit Airlines – $151.53
  Spirit consistently offers rock-bottom base fares for last-minute one-way flights, making it the go-to choice for budget travelers, though extras like carry-ons and seat selection come at an additional cost.
• Frontier Airlines – $160.89
  Frontier maintains its reputation for affordability, delivering some of the cheapest fares available, even on last-minute bookings.
• Hawaiian Airlines – $190.19
  A surprising entry, Hawaiian Airlines stands out with competitive pricing, particularly on short routes such as Honolulu to Maui, offering excellent value for island hopping.
• Southwest Airlines – $212.43
  Southwest combines cost-effectiveness with dependable service, offering transparent pricing that positions it as a reliable option for travelers who need a last-minute flight without compromising quality.
• Alaska Airlines – $229.73
  Alaska Airlines rounds out the list by providing reasonably priced last-minute fares, making it an attractive choice for those who value affordability and a quality travel experience.

Where Last-Minute One-Way Tickets Cost Less

• Alaska Airlines: 22.6% less than the average booking
• Southwest Airlines: 8.2% less
• Frontier Airlines: 3.6% less
• Spirit Airlines: 3.1% less
• American Airlines: 0.8% less

Leading Carriers for Expensive Last-Minute One-Way Fares

• JetBlue – $310.15
  JetBlue leads the flock with the highest last-minute fares, reflecting its premium features such as extra legroom and inflight entertainment, all of which command a higher price when time is short.
• American Airlines – $288.26
  This full-service carrier is renowned for its extensive route network and premium amenities, though its last-minute ticket prices remain steep for spontaneous travelers.
• United Airlines – $274.33
  United Airlines offers reliability and comprehensive service, yet its short-notice bookings come with a price premium.
• Delta Air Lines – $236.36
  Delta, known for consistent quality and a wide-reaching network, rounds out the list with high last-minute fares that reflect the added cost of premium travel benefits.

Airlines Where Last-Minute One-Way Tickets Cost More

• JetBlue: 29.9% more than the average booking
• Hawaiian Airlines: 19.3% more
• United Airlines: 15.6% more
• Delta Air Lines: 1.2% more

Check out the full results, including the cheapest and most expensive flight routes by visiting the complete study online.

About Upgraded Points LLC

Headquartered in Austin, Texas, Upgraded Points is a travel company that helps to demystify the complex world of travel and credit cards. Launched in 2016 by Alex Miller, Upgraded Points uses targeted research efforts and in-depth studies to help travelers maximize their travel, points, and experiences. Learn more at: www.UpgradedPoints.com.

Media Contact: 

Alex Miller, Founder
1-214-646-8866
392297@email4pr.com 

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SOURCE Upgraded Points