What does it mean when an airline "includes free stopovers" in the price of a ticket? Thanks!?

Question

What does it mean when an airline "includes free stopovers" in the price of a ticket? Thanks!?

Answer 1

It means you have to stop. But add the word free and you think you are getting something for nothing.

Answer 2

Yes, your plane may stop along the way, but including a stopover refers to an option to stay awhile at the intermidiate point.

Look at this plan --

THE SAS flight from Los Angeles arrives at Copenhagen around 1:30 P. M.There is a limo to take you to a five-star hotel where you unwind with a sauna and a massage and a smorgasbord lunch. You might go sightseeing or do a spot of business with your Danish distributor. After a gourmet dinner and a restful night, you eat a full Danish breakfast before your limo whisks you back to the airport for the 10:25 A. M. onward flight to Warsaw. And don't forget the complimentary food parcel (Danish ham, sausage, butter and cheese) to ensure you a warm welcome in Poland.

This is the SAS "executive stopover" package, which is free to SAS business class passengers on an intercontinental flight and with an onward booking to an international destination.The package works in either direction and for other city pairs.

It is an example of how competition has led the more enterprising carriers to offer 24-hour packages - either free or with hotel discounts, free transfers and other perks - to long-haul business passengers traveling through their main hubs. The priority for most people is to get there as quickly and comfortably as possible. But it can sometimes make sense to stop over somewhere interesting rather than to fly direct.

Some of the best airline deals are on the ground. A well-chosen stopover can be the essence of strategic travel.

Answer 3

yes, it does mean that you have to stop.  but usually if you choose to leave the airport and stay at the stopover point on a long haul flight for a few days you have to pay extra, ie departure tax.  If they offer a free stopover, you do not have to pay these taxes.  I always take advantage as I find long haul flights killers.