Flight Buzz
Experts say you can use ChatGPT to save hundreds on flight bookings – but there’s a catch
Recently, experts have been praising ChatGPT and other AI tools as great ways to save money on your holiday.
In fact, financial content creator Casper Opala, who has over 8 million social media followers, claims he saved over $1400 on a recent flight booking, just by using an AI chatbot to help him find a deal.
Sounds too good to be true, right? Well, it kinda is.
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Casper, who goes by Casper Capital online, shared a Facebook post detailing the exact search queries he used on ChatGPT to help him find the cheapest way to fly.
Starting with “Find the cheapest way to fly from [City A] to [City B] next month, include hidden routes + alternate airports,” he also asks the AI bot to suggest layover cities, find flash sales and fare mistakes, and look at airlines that aren’t listed on Google Flights or Skyscanner.
According to Casper, using this method, he secured a $1600 flight for less than $150.
Does it actually work?
But how applicable is this in real life? Especially here in Australia, where we have fewer route options, airports, and airlines to choose from, when compared to North America and Europe.
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I decided to put it to the test, and asked ChatGPT to find me the cheapest flight between Sydney and Singapore in the next month.
Using Casper’s criteria, here’s what I asked:
Find the cheapest way to fly from Sydney to Singapore next month, include hidden routes + alternate airports. Which budget airlines operate this route that aren’t listed on Google Flights or Skyscanner? Look for any mistake fares, flash sales, or unusually cheap flights. Suggest layover cities that cut the price, even if it requires two separate bookings.
I got an impressively long reply from ChatGPT. It started with an overview of how to get cheap flights (eg. look to Jetstar and Scoot, be open to stopovers in Bangkok or Denpasar, consider alternative arrival airports near Singapore), then got into the nitty gritty.
The reply listed examples of Scoot and Jetstar sale fares that have cropped up in recent months.
It then prompted me to either give it some specific dates to search for, or ask it to set up an alert strategy which would trawl social media to keep an eye on sales and mistake fares.
I gave it an exact date, but then it just told me to go to Scoot and look it up myself, citing recent fares for about $500 return.
It also gave me an option of flying to Brisbane or Melbourne and looking for sale fares from there to Singapore, but again, it wasn’t able to find me anything specific other than average fare prices.
Heading to Scoot’s website, the cheapest flight I could book was $491 – pretty much exactly what the chatbot predicted.
But I could have found that fare for myself without having to go through the rigmarole of using ChatGPT.
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The only way I can see it being useful is if you otherwise would book a flight without doing any research of your own.
For example, if I just go to the Qantas website and try to book for those dates, it’ll cost me $960. ChatGPT only saved me money by pointing out that Scoot exists – something any other travel booking engine could do.
Again, perhaps it makes more sense for people living in Europe, where there are $20 flights every day to world capitals, and more budget airlines than you can name.
But here in Australia, it doesn’t do much at all.
Published on
August 11, 2025 |
TransNusa, the speedy newcomer in the Indonesian aviation scene, is set to stretch its wings even further. Starting in September and October 2025, the airline will kick off scheduled flights linking Manado to Shenzhen and Shanghai, opening up fresh travel paths for holidaymakers and business travelers alike.
This move is part of TransNusa’s plan to grow the right way, strengthening the web of flights between Indonesia and the world’s busiest markets. The airline is turning charter hops into daily routes, meaning travelers can expect the same comfort and frequency whether they’re chasing a deal on the Shanghai stock exchange or a selfie with the Shenzhen skyline. More flights, less hassle, and plenty of chances for tourism and trade to take off.
New Routes and Schedules
Starting from September 8, 2025, TransNusa will launch its direct route from Manado to Shenzhen, operating three times a week. The flight will depart from Manado’s Sam Ratulangi International Airport at 21:10, reaching Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport at 01:00. The return flight from Shenzhen to Manado will depart at 02:00 and arrive at 05:50.
For those traveling to Shanghai, the schedule will feature a stopover at Clark International Airport. The Manado-Shanghai service, starting on October 2, 2025, will also run three times weekly. Passengers will experience a short layover of 30 to 35 minutes at Clark International before continuing their journey to Shanghai Pudong International Airport.
Ticket Pricing and Availability
TransNusa is offering competitive prices for these new routes. Passengers can book tickets for the Manado to Shenzhen flight starting at IDR 3,499,000 (CNY 1,525 or USD 226). The Manado to Shanghai flights are available from IDR 3,988,000 (CNY 1,688 or USD 257). Tickets can be purchased via TransNusa’s official website or through major online travel agents worldwide.
Comfortable Travel Experience
To ensure a comfortable travel experience, TransNusa will be operating these routes using its C909 jet airliner, which offers 95 seats, providing a more spacious and relaxed environment for passengers. The airline has emphasized its commitment to premium service, offering better amenities and flexibility for all passengers.
Expanding Manado’s Role as a Key Hub
These new flights are part of TransNusa’s ongoing efforts to enhance its operations at Manado’s Sam Ratulangi International Airport, which serves as one of its key bases in Indonesia. By adding direct and transit-based international connections, TransNusa is aiming to position Manado as an increasingly important gateway for both domestic and international tourists.
Datuk Bernard Francis, CEO of TransNusa, stated that the new commercial routes to China will significantly benefit both local residents and travelers. With the increased connectivity, Manado-based travelers now have more options for exploring destinations across China, as well as access to other popular Indonesian locations, including Bali.
Tips for Travelers
- Plan Ahead: Make sure to book your flights early to secure the best deals on tickets for these newly launched routes.
- Check Visa Requirements: If you are traveling to China from Manado, ensure you meet all visa requirements well in advance.
- Explore Manado’s Attractions: Before your international flight, take time to discover Manado’s stunning natural beauty, from the renowned Bunaken National Marine Park to the fascinating Tangkoko Nature Reserve.
- Layover in Clark: If you’re traveling to Shanghai, you’ll have a brief layover at Clark International Airport. Use the time to relax or grab a bite before continuing your journey.
- Travel Insurance: With any international trip, it’s always wise to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers flight delays, cancellations, and medical emergencies.
TransNusa’s Vision for Growth
TransNusa’s strategic focus on organic growth has led to significant advancements in its network expansion. In just over a year since its relaunch, the airline has introduced multiple new international routes, including services to Kuala Lumpur and Guangzhou. As the airline strengthens its presence in Southeast Asia and beyond, it continues to prioritize passenger comfort and reliable services.
In addition to these China-bound routes, the airline has made strides in diversifying its flight offerings, including a new Bali to Perth route set to launch in March 2026. TransNusa’s focus on offering more direct flights and increasing the frequency of existing routes underscores its determination to cater to a growing market of international travelers.
Looking Ahead: A Strong Future for TransNusa
With a growing network, a modern fleet, and a premium service offering, TransNusa is well-positioned to become a key player in the Southeast Asian aviation sector. The airline’s leadership is committed to further expanding its international routes and ensuring that passengers have access to top-tier travel experiences. Travelers looking to visit destinations in China, Indonesia, and beyond will benefit from the increased connectivity provided by TransNusa’s expanding route network.
As TransNusa continues to evolve, its efforts to improve flight options for both business and leisure travelers reflect a broader trend of increasing connectivity in the region, positioning Indonesia as an important hub for international tourism and business travel.
Key Takeaways
- TransNusa has just announced two exciting new international flights from Manado direct connections to Shenzhen and Shanghai.
- The Manado to Shenzhen service will run three times a week and get you to China without any stopovers.
- Fares for these routes kick off at IDR 3,499,000 to Shenzhen and IDR 3,988,000 to Shanghai.
- These flights will help bring more tourists to Manado and let you easily reach China or hop to other spots in Indonesia, including Bali.
- Remember to check if you need a visa, grab your tickets early, and think about travel insurance for added peace of mind.
Flight Buzz
Air India Rolls Out ‘Namaste World’ Sale With Unbeatable Offers To UK, US, Canada, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Malaysia, Japan, And More Domestic Flights Starting At One Thousand Four Hundred Ninety Nine Rupees And Special Discounts On International Routes
Published on
August 11, 2025 |
UK, US, Canada, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Malaysia, Japan, and more are at the heart of Air India’s exciting ‘Namaste World’ sale, which offers travelers unbeatable fares starting from just one thousand four hundred ninety-nine rupees on domestic routes. This special promotion includes attractive international round-trip prices, making it easier for passengers to explore these popular destinations and beyond. With bookings available through multiple channels and additional discounts for Visa card users and online reservations, Air India’s ‘Namaste World’ sale provides exceptional value and convenience for travelers planning their next trips.
Air India has recently announced its exciting new promotional campaign, the ‘Namaste World’ sale, designed to offer travelers substantial savings on fares across its extensive domestic and international flight network. This limited-time sale presents an excellent opportunity for both leisure and business travelers to explore India and the world at affordable rates, with one-way domestic tickets starting from just ₹1,499 and international round-trip fares beginning at ₹12,310. The campaign aims to boost travel enthusiasm by making flights more accessible and affordable during this promotional period.
The ‘Namaste World’ sale is valid for bookings made until 11:59 PM on August 15, 2025, allowing ample time for customers to plan and secure their travel itineraries. Tickets purchased under this promotion are valid for travel until March 31, 2026, providing flexibility for travelers to choose convenient dates within the next several months. Whether planning a short domestic getaway or an international adventure, the sale encompasses a wide range of routes and destinations, promising travelers a diverse selection of options.
International fares under the ‘Namaste World’ promotion are priced competitively in local currencies, making it easier for passengers across different countries to take advantage of the discounts at various points of sale worldwide. This inclusive pricing approach helps to eliminate confusion and provides clarity for customers when booking tickets abroad.
The sale launched on August 10, 2025, with initial bookings available exclusively through Air India’s official digital platforms—its website and mobile app. This strategy encouraged tech-savvy travelers to access the best deals online without additional convenience fees, ensuring a seamless booking experience. From August 11, 2025, the promotional fares were extended to all other sales channels, including airport ticket counters, Air India’s customer service centers, and authorized travel agents. This broad accessibility ensures that customers who prefer traditional booking methods or require personalized assistance can also benefit from the discounted fares.
In addition to the headline discounts, Air India has introduced further savings through promo codes aimed at rewarding loyal customers and promoting cashless payments. By applying the code FLYAI during booking, passengers can enjoy an additional discount of up to ₹1,000 per person, making the already attractive fares even more affordable. Moreover, Visa cardholders are offered exclusive benefits by using the promo code VISAFLY, which grants discounts of up to ₹2,500 per passenger. These special offers encourage the use of digital payments and provide significant incentives for travelers to book their flights using Visa cards.
Visa cardholders enjoy a tiered discount structure based on the journey type. For domestic flights, they receive a flat ₹250 off on one-way tickets and ₹500 off on round-trip bookings. On international flights, the discounts are even more generous, with savings of up to ₹1,500 on one-way travel and up to ₹2,500 for round-trip journeys. These layered benefits underscore Air India’s commitment to enhancing customer value and encouraging early bookings.
Beyond ticket discounts, Air India is also enhancing the overall travel experience by offering reductions on ancillary services, which often add considerable cost to a journey. Travelers can avail up to 60% off on prepaid baggage allowances, allowing them to carry more luggage without worrying about hefty fees at the airport. Additionally, seat selection upgrades, including preferred seats and those with extra legroom, are available at up to 15% discount. These add-ons can be booked either through direct channels such as the airline’s website and app or through indirect channels including travel agents, giving passengers flexibility in customizing their trips to suit comfort and convenience preferences.
The promotional fares cover a broad spectrum of international destinations, with all-inclusive round-trip ticket prices that reflect competitive rates across cabin classes. For example, flights from India to the United Kingdom start at ₹44,500 for economy class, ₹95,000 for premium economy, and ₹1,43,000 for business class. European destinations generally have fares beginning at ₹44,000 in economy and going up to ₹1,30,000 in business class. Canada-bound travelers can secure economy seats starting at ₹62,199, with business class tickets priced up to ₹1,77,399. Similarly, fares to Australia start at ₹51,317 in economy and extend to ₹1,63,291 in business class. Flights to the United States are offered at rates from ₹49,635 in economy up to ₹1,90,666 in business class.
In addition to these key international markets, the promotion includes routes to popular destinations such as Sri Lanka, the United Arab Emirates, Singapore, Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Japan. Competitive pricing across all these destinations ensures that travelers can explore Asia and beyond with affordable and convenient Air India service options.
Passengers interested in taking advantage of the ‘Namaste World’ sale should act quickly, as the seats available under this promotional offer are limited and subject to availability on a first-come, first-served basis. Not all flights or routes are covered by the sale, and fares may vary depending on the point of sale, currency exchange fluctuations, and applicable taxes or fees. Therefore, customers are encouraged to carefully review fare rules and conditions when booking.
Air India’s ‘Namaste World’ sale represents a major push to stimulate travel demand amid a competitive airline industry. By combining attractive base fares with additional promotional codes and discounts on ancillary services, the airline is offering a compelling package designed to attract a wide spectrum of travelers—from budget-conscious tourists to premium customers seeking comfort and value.
Whether you’re planning a domestic trip to visit family or friends or aiming to jet off to an international business meeting or vacation, this sale offers a unique opportunity to save significantly on airfare and enjoy Air India’s renowned hospitality and extensive route network.
UK, US, Canada, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Malaysia, Japan, and more are included in Air India’s ‘Namaste World’ sale, offering domestic fares from just one thousand four hundred ninety-nine rupees and attractive international discounts. This limited-time offer provides great value for travelers booking through multiple channels with additional savings for Visa cardholders.
Travelers can look forward to a hassle-free booking experience via the airline’s intuitive digital platforms or through trusted travel agents and sales offices. With a variety of fare classes, flexible travel periods, and valuable add-on discounts, the ‘Namaste World’ sale stands out as one of Air India’s most attractive offerings to date.
Flight Buzz
Two blind women say they became only passengers on Southwest flight after airline ‘forgot about’ them
Two blind women from Florida recently discovered they were the only passengers aboard their Southwest Airlines flight from New Orleans to Orlando, saying the company needs to improve how it communicates with passengers who have disabilities.
Sherri Brun and Camille Tate were traveling together on Southwest Flight 2637, scheduled to depart New Orleans on July 14. Following a nearly five-hour delay, the two friends finally boarded their flight, only to discover they were the only two people on the plane, FOX 35 reported.
“You’re the only two people on this flight because they forgot about you,” Brun said the two women were told.
Two blind women from Florida recently discovered they were the only passengers aboard their Southwest Airlines flight from New Orleans to Orlando.
Brun and Tate said they had waited by their assigned gate, checking Southwest’s app for updates. However, unbeknownst to them, nearly all the other passengers had been rebooked on a separate Southwest flight to Orlando that departed earlier from a nearby gate, FOX 35 reported.
According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, airlines must provide prompt and effective communication for passengers with visual impairments, especially during delays or rebookings and boarding changes a federal law under the Air Carrier Access Act.
Brun and Tate said that requirement was far from met. “Nobody said a word to us about another flight,” Brun said. “We were just waiting at the gate, checking the app, like everyone else.”
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Travelers make their way through Orlando International Airport on September 2, 2023.
“There needs to be some improvement in how they communicate with their passengers, especially those that have disabilities,” Tate said.
“We have seen inaccurate accounts that suggest we ‘forgot’ the two customers, or that we sent a plane back to get them,” a Southwest spokesperson told Fox News Digital in an email. “Neither of these is the case. … The Customers were scheduled on Flight 2637. Although it ran almost five hours late that day, it remained their same flight number throughout.”
The airline offered each of the women a $100 travel voucher as compensation for the delay.
Southwest said it offered each of the women a $100 travel voucher as compensation for the delay.
“We apologize for the inconvenience,” Southwest told Fox News Digital. “Southwest is always looking for ways to improve our customers’ travel experiences, and we’re active in the airline industry in sharing best practices about how to best accommodate Passengers with disabilities.”
Original article source: Two blind women say they became only passengers on Southwest flight after airline ‘forgot about’ them
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