Google Flights gets a new feature to find cheaper airfare; here how to use it

In 1998, Richard Aiken invented airfare search and pricing software in the MIT Artificial Intelligence Laboratory in ITA. Google purchased the software in April 2011 for $700 million. This technology is now used by travel companies to compare fares for flights.

Over the years, Google Flights has been integrated with Google Travel which allows users to search for and book flights, track them, and even set reminders. It also provides personal travel recommendations based on a user’s search and booking history. Here’s everything you need to know about the feature.

Google Flights to suggest cheapest options

Google Flights is adding a ‘Cheapest’ tab to help users save money by spending the least to reach their destination. This search capability adapts a creative research process that considers multiple airlines and other sites along with the latest travel trends.

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The Cheapest tab searches to find the lowest-cost itineraries. It offers a comprehensive search interface that allows users to compare prices, airlines, and flight times across multiple carriers. It shows the cheapest options with more flexibility, like using a different booking site or returning to a different airport.

How to use Google Flights for cheaper

The Cheapest tab is available to users who use Google Flights on their smartphones. The user then needs to add details about their trip. Once the results load, you will see the regular ‘Best’ tab that balances cost and convenience. There is another ‘Cheapest’ tab that can list all options with lower prices.

However, this tab focuses solely on the price. These options may have trade-offs like longer layovers or self-transfers, but they can save you money. You can choose the best possible option that works for you and you are set.

This feature is being rolled out gradually. It is said to be available to all users globally in about two weeks. For such tips and tricks, subscribe to Unboxed by Croma.