13 Travel Scams to Avoid and Stay Protected

13. Bogus Charter Flights and Transport Offers

What it is: Scammers advertise cheap charter flights, coach transfers, or package tours that don’t operate, or they sell seats on flights that aren’t approved. Passengers may only realize the issue at the airport or when a promised vehicle doesn’t show. How they work: Fraudsters post attractive schedules and low prices, then ask for full payment by bank transfer or a prepaid method. Sometimes they claim to operate under a legitimate airline code but the DOT approval doesn’t exist. Victims arrive without recourse or find a different carrier trying to sort the mess. Prevention steps: Verify charter and flight operators through official channels. For U.S. charters, check DOT listings and airline codes and book via established travel agents or directly with carriers. Use credit cards for protection and save all documentation. If a transfer is included with a package, get the provider’s local contact number and confirm pick-up details the day before travel. Where to report: Report suspected charter fraud to the U.S. Department of Transportation and the FTC. If you’re abroad, contact local aviation authorities and your embassy for assistance.