In airline lingo, blocking an airline ticket refers to reserving a ticket for a flight. This tactic is used by flight consumers who want to reserve a ticket without making an instant purchase. Companies affiliated with airline corporations block tickets to reserve them for potential customers. When a ticket is blocked, the airline holds the seat for a specific time frame; if a ticket purchase is not made, airlines unblock the ticket and the purchase price rises to full price.

Plan your trip a month ahead. Planning an early trip saves costs and prevents unwanted delays, or mishaps. Blocking a ticket is done prior to the date of a flight. Each airline has a different time frame for blocking tickets. Call the airline to inquire about the time allotted to reserve a ticket before a flight.

Select a seat. Booking an early flight gives you the advantage of seating preferences. Seats prices differ by location and the amount of given space. Seats located in the rear of the plane are priced lower, and the front seats are priced higher. A seating chart is found on the airline's website or is explained over the phone.

Call to reserve your ticket. Place a call to the airline and have the flight information ready. The automated service will direct you to a live travel agent, who will request personal information, destination, time and date of the flight you want to book, as well as the seat you selected. A debit or credit card is needed to reserve the ticket. The airline company will not charge the card until a purchase is made. The ticket is blocked and a confirmation code is sent to you through email.

About the Author

Crystal Buckle has written professionally since 2010. She brings a great amount of health-care knowledge to her articles for various websites. Buckle is pursuing a Bachelor of Arts at Marygrove College.

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