Something is always happening in the travel business. . .it’s seldom the same ‘ole, same ‘ole. Airfares change by the minute, conventions spring up in resorts that our client wants to go to, the weather is always unpredictable, something is always changing.
One of the big changes coming that was announced this morning was the merger between American Airlines and US Airways. Here’s only a few of the questions: what’s going to happen to the airfares, what’s going to happen to my frequent flyer accounts, will they reduce schedules or add flights in some markets, is it going to affect travel in and out of Abilene?
For sure there won’t be any more competition in airfares between AA and US Air anymore, but they will still compete in some markets against Delta, United, Southwest, JetBlue and Spirit. So there will be some fare positioning in my estimation, just like it is now with a real good fare being advertised, but with minimum availability at that rate.
It will take a while, but the frequent flyer programs will merge and no one will lose any miles in the process. The “new” program might require more miles for a free or discounted ticket. . .but even then, it’s their program, designed not for the customer but for the airlines benefit.
Yes, there would be a paring down of the number of flights in the markets where they were previously competing. In Abilene, American Eagle should not necessarily be affected since they are no longer a member of the American Airlines corporation.
Wait a minute. . .it hasn’t happened yet, it’s just publicity fodder at this time, and even if both boards agree to culminate the deal, it’s still not a done deal until they get the approval from the Department of Justice. The DOJ might impose certain requirements for the deal to be approved which both airlines find unacceptable. That’s highly unlikely though considering their recent approval of United/Continental and Southwest/Trans Air.
The cruise industry has been exciting and exhausting this week!! With Carnival’s Triumph having problems in the engine room, adjustments for those folks who were on it and for those who had trips planned have kept this travel agency pretty busy. . .but at least our clients have someone to whom they can turn and get educated and experienced advice. Based on the exercises we have had to go through, I pity those who were trying to operate on their own.
Carnival is cancelling future departures on the Triumph through April 13, and are doing their best to help those who have been inconvenienced. They are providing a full refund of the cruise fare, as well as the non-refundable transportation costs, any pre-paid gratuities, shore excursions, government fees, and taxes. They are also offering a 25% discount on a future 3-5 day cruise and a 15% discount on a 7-day cruise. My contention is that the Triumph will be the safest ship sailing when she comes out of dry dock.
Thanks for keeping up with the travel news and travel tips by listening to Talk Radio, KWKC 1340, and for letting this locally-owned travel agency help with your travel plans. Reach us at 698-1421 or 800-760-4040, come by for a visit at 4150 Southwest Dr., or try out our new website at www.thetravelfactoryabilene.com.