How 'Bout Those Cheap Airline Seats???

The news is out now that the 3 major airlines, American, Delta, and United, are in the airfare race to see how many more customers they can entice over to their airplanes. Of course, they are offering the lesser expensive coach fares to compete with the low ball carriers who have shown some impressive growth, especially in several key markets like Dallas, Denver, and Chicago...enough to get the attention of the majors.

So, how are they going to compete. Well, they will offer in most markets the very lowest fare, virtually equal to Spirit and Frontier. But, of course there will be some restrictions, and it will affect the vacation traveler for sure.

They say that the traveler will experience the same in-flight experience that everyone receives today including the soft drinks, snacks, and entertainment options. But...seats will not be assigned until check-in. Upgrades are not permitted regardless of elite status level. One personal carry-on item that fits under the seat like a small backpack or a purse is all that will be allowed. Larger carry-ons such as a roller bag must be checked at the ticket counter and pay the applicable checked-baggage charge.

Additionally, those booked in the “basic economy” class will be in the last group to be called to board the plane.

Another sticky point is that the tickets purchased are non-refundable and non-changeable. Use it or lose it; no same-day flight change or same-day standby.

Not all flights will have the “basic economy” fares.

With a little editorial comment, the legacy carriers believe the advantage of flying basic economy with them is more legroom (really?), better in-flight service (are you kidding?), more flights (that might be an honest statement), more destinations (but I just want to go to one), and a broader set of amenities such as free streaming in-flight entertainment.

The bottom line is that the majority of coach class passengers will remain main cabin customers, but now paying a little less without the so-called frills. Another more major bottom line is that the legacy carriers are still knocking home runs in the financial bottom line each year. We'll just have to wait and see if this move brings them that much more business....or is it offering their customers much more inconvenience. In my opinion, customer service bites the dust again.

Well, let me tell you, the experienced travel agents at The Travel Factory stand ready to try to explain the airlines antics and will do our best to sell you the best available price at the time you make the reservations. After all, a lot of travel agents are not selling airline tickets anymore because of some of the shenanigans pulled by the airlines, but as of now, we are still offering that service to our Big Country citizens. Let me encourage you to call us at 698-1421, or toll-free 800-760-4040, or drop in for an eye-to-eye visit at 4150 Southwest Drive. We'd love to help you manufacture the vacation of your dreams.