What is meant by the term 'no show' in aviation?

The term 'no show' in aviation specifically refers to a revenue passenger who does not show up for their flight. This situation arises when a ticketed passenger fails to board the aircraft, which can impact the airline's operational planning and revenue management. When passengers do not cancel their reservations in advance, it not only affects the seating availability but can also lead to potential overbooking scenarios for airlines, as they often sell more tickets than there are available seats, anticipating a number of 'no shows.'

Understanding this terminology is crucial for flight attendants and airline staff as it affects passenger management, flight load calculations, and on-time performance. Recognizing the implications of no shows helps improve customer service and operational efficiency within the airline.