Metasearch versus online travel agency explained — who holds your money, change rights, disruption desks and EU261 claim paths when you book via Skyscanner, Google or an OTA.
Key takeaways
- Metasearch (Google Flights, Skyscanner, Kayak, Momondo) compares offers and sends you to a seller — airline or OTA — to pay.
- Metasearch compares; OTAs ticket. Airlines ticket direct.
- Verdict: read the handoff label before pay — "Book with British Airways" versus "Book with CheapTicketsAgency" is not cosmetic.
- Compare on meta; ticket with eyes open on seller identity.
What is the difference between metasearch and an OTA?
Metasearch (Google Flights, Skyscanner, Kayak, Momondo) compares offers and sends you to a seller — airline or OTA — to pay. An OTA (Expedia, eTraveli brands, many Aviasales handoffs, Kiwi) tickets the fare itself on its own plate. Disruption handling and refunds flow through whoever ticketed you.
EU261 claims go to the operating carrier — but OTA middlemen slow correspondence. See when booking direct wins.
Metasearch vs OTA — comparison
Metasearch compares; OTAs ticket. Airlines ticket direct. Your checkout choice sets who answers the phone at 2 a.m. when a cancellation hits.
| Layer | Examples | Tickets? | Disruption first call |
|---|---|---|---|
| Metasearch | Google, Skyscanner, Kayak | No | Whoever sold the fare |
| OTA | Many Aviasales sellers, Kiwi | Yes | OTA then airline |
| Airline-direct | ba.com, delta.com | Yes | Airline |
Metasearch vs OTA — verdict
Verdict: read the handoff label before pay — "Book with British Airways" versus "Book with CheapTicketsAgency" is not cosmetic. Not for passengers who assume Skyscanner ticketed them.
Framework checked August 2026.
Metasearch vs OTA FAQ
Compare on meta; ticket with eyes open on seller identity.
Google Flights book button? Often airline — still verify.
Kiwi? OTA with Guarantee product — not standard protected connection.
Evidence note
How we checked this guide
Research basis
Structured desk research with 3 relevant primary or independent sources linked below.
Experience standard
No first-hand test or trip is implied unless the article explicitly states who tested it, when and under what conditions.
Review date
Editorially reviewed on 8 August 2026. Time-sensitive prices, rules and eligibility must be checked again before purchase or travel.
Commercial independence
Commercial links do not determine the verdict. A commissioned link activates only when it is visibly labelled before the click.
See the editorial policy, method notes, or report a correction.