Will the airline honor a mistake fare?

Most major airlines now honor mistake fares, but they are not legally required to if the error is considered 'palpable' (obvious). If they cancel it, you are entitled to a full refund.

How do I pay for these if the price changes while I'm typing?

Use a digital wallet like Apple Pay or saved credit card details in your browser to minimize the time between seeing the deal and hitting 'confirm'.

Should I call the airline to confirm?

Absolutely not. Calling draws attention to the pricing error and increases the chances that a customer service agent will flag and correct it.

How to score mistake fares for cheaper flights

Mistake fares happen when airlines misprice tickets due to currency conversion errors or human input mistakes. You can catch these by using dedicated alert services and acting within minutes, as they are corrected as soon as the airline notices.

Set up real-time alerts. Subscribe to services like Scott’s Cheap Flights (Going), Secret Flying, or Airfarewatchdog. Set your email to 'Instant' notifications rather than a daily digest, because mistake fares often disappear within 60 minutes.
Use a flexible search tool. Keep a tab open with Google Flights or Skyscanner. When an alert hits, input the departure and arrival airports immediately to verify if the low price is still live.
Book through the airline directly. Avoid third-party OTAs (Online Travel Agencies) if possible. If the airline's own website reflects the low price, booking there gives you better leverage if there is a customer service issue later.
Wait 72 hours before booking other logistics. Do not book non-refundable hotels or tours for 3 days. Airlines may cancel the ticket if they classify it as a 'palpable error.' If your ticket is confirmed and you receive an e-ticket number, you are likely safe.

Will the airline honor a mistake fare?: Most major airlines now honor mistake fares, but they are not legally required to if the error is considered 'palpable' (obvious). If they cancel it, you are entitled to a full refund.
How do I pay for these if the price changes while I'm typing?: Use a digital wallet like Apple Pay or saved credit card details in your browser to minimize the time between seeing the deal and hitting 'confirm'.
Should I call the airline to confirm?: Absolutely not. Calling draws attention to the pricing error and increases the chances that a customer service agent will flag and correct it.