Flight Hack: Why Travelers Are Playing 'Check-in Chicken' to Score Better Seats

A new strategy called "Check-in Chicken" is emerging among air travelers seeking premium airplane seats without the premium price tag, though aviation experts warn the approach carries risks.

The trend, which has gained significant traction on social media platforms, involves deliberately postponing online check-in until the last possible moment. The theory? As other passengers claim the standard complimentary seats early in the process, only the more desirable – and typically more expensive – seats remain available for last-minute check-ins.

"It's a game of aviation chicken," says TikTok travel influencer @cheapholidayexpert, who has helped popularize the method. "By postponing check-in until the eleventh hour, you force the airline's hand - the only remaining options are the premium seats nobody wants to pay for." via The Thrillist. 

However, timing proves crucial in this high-stakes game. While the strategy requires waiting, experts caution against cutting it too close. "I've actually got five and a half hours still to check in," the TikToker notes in a recent video. "At this point, it's good to check in and see the lay of the land. Because ultimately, you do not want to be left without a seat. Sometimes these airlines do like to overbook."

According to The Thrillist, Travel Republic consultants recommend monitoring the seating chart throughout the pre-flight period. "Many airlines release the final seating chart as boarding time approaches," their representatives said in a statement. "Using the airline's app or website, you can often see which seats are still available and move closer to an empty row."

The strategy's success largely hinges on various factors, including route popularity, aircraft size, and individual airline policies. It proves most effective on full or nearly full flights, where premium seats are more likely to remain unclaimed by passengers unwilling to pay extra fees.

Critics of the practice argue that intentionally delaying check-in could disrupt boarding procedures and potentially leave travelers without seats entirely. The trend has also sparked ethical debates within the travel community, with some questioning whether such tactical maneuvering could prompt airlines to implement stricter policies affecting all passengers.

Despite these concerns, as airlines continue to monetize seat selection and travel costs rise, many passengers view the Check-in Chicken strategy as a creative response to finding comfort without additional expenses. The practice represents the latest chapter in the ongoing tension between air carriers' premium pricing strategies and travelers' attempts to maximize comfort while minimizing costs.

For those considering this approach, aviation experts emphasize the importance of understanding airline-specific policies and maintaining reasonable time buffers before departure. While the strategy may result in upgraded seating, it requires careful timing and an acceptance of potential risks – including the possibility of ending up with an undesirable seat or, in worst-case scenarios, missing the check-in window entirely.