Booking flights with a keyboard may be the solution to a more common problem than it seems. For many people, booking a flight online feels like a digital obstacle course: pop-up ads, unwieldy calendars, and endless forms turn a simple procedure into a source of stress.
And you’re not the only one who thinks so. Millions of people get frustrated every day trying to book a flight. If this has ever happened to you, keep reading: There is a faster and more elegant way to do it.
The Trick that (almost) no one uses: Book flights with a keyboard
Few people know it, but you don’t need a mouse to move around a website. In fact, the most advanced users, the so-called power users, have been carrying out the practice of booking flights with a keyboard for years. Because? Because it is faster, more precise and eliminates visual distractions.
Does it sound exaggerated to you? Try this next time:
- Press the Tab key on the booking page: you will see how the focus automatically advances through the interactive elements.
- Use Shift + Tab to go back.
- Press Enter to activate a button or link.
- With the arrow keys you can move through drop-down lists or calendars.
It’s that simple. And so effective.
The Law that will make this mandatory
The best thing is that this “secret” will cease to be a secret very soon. Starting from June 28, 2025, all airline websites operating in Europe must be 100% keyboard navigable. Because? Due to the entry into force of Law 11/2023, which transposes the Directive (EU) 2019/882, known as the European Accessibility Act.
This law not only seeks to benefit people with disabilities. Seeks to improve the digital experience for everyone.
How to navigate a flight form using only the keyboard?
Here you have a small practical guide. Try this on your next reservation and see the difference:
- Tab: Move between fields, menus and buttons.
- Shift + Tab: Go back to the previous field.
- Enter: Activates the selected element (button, link, box).
- Space: Check a box or select an item.
- Arrows: Navigate in drop-down menus or calendars.
- Esc: Close pop-ups or open menus.
💡 Tip: If a website does not respond correctly to these actions, it may not yet be complying with the new legal requirements.
Who really benefits?
People with Motor Disabilities
For those who cannot use a mouse, whether due to a permanent or temporary injury or condition, keyboard navigation is not an improvement: it is a vital necessity. This law guarantees that users can book flights with a keyboard, manage their data or access services without depending on external help.
Expert Users (and not so much)
- People looking for efficiency and speed
- Screen reader users
- Those who use browsers in text mode or with minimalist extensions
- People with broken trackpad or mouse
- Older users who prefer the keyboard
The Whole Society
What is good for accessibility is good for usability in general. More clarity, less friction, cleaner interfaces… Accessibility actually improves life for all of us.
Conclusion: The future of aerial usability
Booking a flight should be as simple as choosing a destination. Thanks to this new regulation, it will be. If airlines are truly committed to society, you can start enjoying its benefits right now. The keyboard is your ally. Start booking flights with keyboard
