When is a ticket considered "used" ?
 

I'm trying to avoid a 'no show fee' on Philippine Airlines. Does anyone know whether I can just check in to my flight with a ticketing agent at the airport within the 6-hour window of departure, or do I actually need to have the ticket scanned by the agent at the jet way prior to boarding?

Standard industry technology updates a coupon status to USED after the traveler does ALL:

1. Checks in
2. is Boarded
3. Flight is airborne

There may be variations based on carrier policy/GDS infrastructure, but if you aren't going to be on board when your plane departs, you ticket likely won't become USED.

Very helpful. Thanks!