Falling fares this summer

For the first time since 2004, the price of airplane tickets during the summer within the United States has fallen. With the price of jet fuel going up and with the airlines making repeated efforts to institute fare hikes, this is no mean feat for the industry.

Sabre, the largest computer reservation system in America recently analysed airfares on behalf of USA Today. After comparing prices of over a million tickets purchased before May 31 for summer travel, Sabre found that tickets this year cost 2 per cent less than they did this year.

Last summer a lack of seats and a surge in demand made prices soar whereas this summer, the average round trip domestic ticket cost $340.

The increase in competition on the market is partially responsible for keeping prices reasonable and passengers have the budget airlines in particular to thank. Compared to the traditional carriers, low-cost airlines are growing rapidly this year.

In particular, travelers should keep an eye out for low fares to Orlando and the rest of Florida, Denver and Chicago.

Unfortunately, international flyers are not faring so well with prices climbing ten per cent this summer over last year’s fares. Last summer, the average international round trip ticket cost $907. This year it costs $997.

Betsy Sell, managing director of AAA’s travel department, said: “It is difficult to find seats at a bargain; they’re just not out there.”

If you’re thinking of travelling this summer and haven’t yet booked a flight, it would be wise to do so soon while prices are low but there are still seats available. Besides, you never know when they may soar once again.

www.aaa.com