The current state of the airline industry Options

[Hartmann]

Things are getting really ugly, really quick.

United has reduced capacity, is cutting staff, and is killing of their low-cost carrier TED.
US Airways has not fulfilled its order for two planes that could fly their new route to China, so they'll lose the route and they're reducing capacity.
The Delta/Northwest Merger isn't complete yet, so who knows the outcome.
Continental announced this morning that they are reducing capacity and cutting some staffing.
ExpressJet (who Continental employs to fly their little jets) is on the verge of Ch11.
Southwest has raised fares considerably.
JetBlue has cut a number of routes.
AA is nickel and diming customers to make up the costs.


yikes.

[Mommy]

United just added a fuel charge to flights. $10 each way.

[Hartmann]

United just added a fuel charge to flights. $10 each way.

This will be more and more common.

One announcement that has not made it out into the public is the fact that Continental is now charging a larger fee for same day standby. It will cost you $50 if you get to the airport early and would like to take the earlier flight to your destination.

Southwest has always been the worst for standby and flight changes. You can buy a fully refundable ticket ($$$) or you can eat the cost and buy a new one at the airport.