How risky to buy airline voucher on eBay?

[Amy]

I've got to buy four tickets for an upcoming trip, and I'm tempted to save a bit by buying one of the airline vouchers for sale on eBay. The vouchers are the ones with a certain cash value (instead of "free companion flight" or something else like that). For example, these vouchers were issued when someone got bumped or when someone received some money back when price dropped. The vouchers are said to be transferable, but I assume that the terms also say they cannot be sold (though of course no one mentions that in the eBay listings). I recall awhile back reading about airlines monitoring eBay for sale of FF mile awards. Is it truly risky for me to buy one of these credit vouchers? Has anyone here purchased them and used them with success? Anyone used them and later one got their $ amount invalidated?

 

[Jbart74]

If the actual voucher number is not listed in the EBay sale, and the name of the original recipient is not listed on the voucher, there is no way for the airlines to keep track of them.

I have never received a voucher without my name on it, and I have received many over the past 15 years.

Look at the pictures, or ask to be sent a picture of the front and back of the voucher for sale.

Just my two cents. Hope it helps.

 

[Amy]

The sellers often post photos with the names/numbers blacked out.

 

[Jbart74]

Interesting, but if the original recipient's name is on the voucher, just like a ticket, it would be non-transferable, right?

 

[Amy]

The terms of the voucher says it is "transferable". I've seen images that has that language.

 

[Carolinian]

Sale of the voucher probably violates its T&C, so the real question is the liklihood of getting caught and the consequences. Some airlines are more watchful of these things than others.

 

[klynn]

Why not look at craiglist.com for your area? That way you can meet the person if you feel the need. I bought voucher that way. I bought 2 vouchers worth a total $500.00 for $100.00. I was happy saving $400.00!