Last week, we talked about how much the airline business has changed in the last several decades. Those changes are about more than just mergers and acquisitions – they affect the timing of ticket prices too.
Airline mergers and bankruptcies have been common in the last several decades, transforming the landscape of the air travel industry.
The chart above shows airline consolidation since the 1970s and how this has seen the 10 major airlines during this period whittled down to just 5 major players:
In 2013, we learned that the US Justice Department and six states filed an antitrust suit to prevent American Airlines from merging with US Air. The government’s position is that while the merger would benefit the two companies and the air travel industry as a whole, it would have a negative impact on consumers through higher fares and fees. The airlines disagree, claiming the merger would result in improved service for customers; It would also allow American Airlines to emerge from bankruptcy court protection, where it has been since filing in 2011.
Data shows this pattern has already led to higher costs for consumers, and while some have balked at the government’s intervention in this merger after allowing so many others, the government seems to simple think enough is enough.
What do you think? Should airlines be allowed to merge if it strengthens their bottom line, even if decreased competition means higher costs for travelers, or has consolidation gone far enough?
We all look forward to vacations, but have you ever met someone who looks forward to packing? Neither have we.
But we all do it, and doing it well makes all the difference on your trip. These great tips might just get you excited to pack your next bag! (And don’t forget our tips on avoiding baggage fees!)
Got a great packing tip of your own? Share it in the comments!
photo credit: Christian Lambert Photography via photopin cc
Cruise package prices usually include accommodations, some activities, on-board entertainment, baggage handling, some food and the use of any public facilities on the ship. However, there are several other charges to be aware of when planning a cruise. Port fees and taxes are added, and these vary depending on the port location. Some local governments may also add a head tax, which is an extra fee per passenger to help cover the cost of maintaining a port’s infrastructure.
People who must fly to their port of call may also choose to add airfare to a package. It is helpful to check with the cruise line to see if this added charge includes or excludes baggage and handling costs. Some premium restaurants and special activities on a cruise may cost extra. While most food is free on a cruise, free beverages are limited. Fortunately, there are ways to save money in all of these areas.
This week, our Operations Manager, Carlos, shares the strange story of his accidental Hawaii Honeymoon… Enjoy!
It all started with a search for cheap flights to Hawaii while sitting on a couch in a friend’s living room. There happened to be a good deal for a round-trip flight from LA to Maui, and minutes later a group of 6 of us were weeks away from what would become my pre-wedding honeymoon trip.
