[blockquote]
----------------
On 2/6/2003 1:33:13 PM usfliboi wrote:
Bob alot of what u say is sooo true. The airline buisness model isnt broken anymore than most of corperate america is. Im still confused on why u feel the fare structure is sooo way out of line. Granted it needs to be tweeked but if i were to bet it is the fares that affect u in particular that rub u the wrong way. Most of the traveling public chooses an airline based on cost, and the most simplest way to get there. They dont look at the "structure". They ask whats the cheapest fare, and take what flights and routes that work for them. Im not saying the "structure" cant use tweeking because it can indeed. THIS ISNT A US PROBLEM. This is an across the board problem that has to be solved across the board.
----------------
[/blockquote]
I know you guys hate me for this, but go over to Southwest's web site and go into reservations and pick any two cities. Notice how you get to select from 5 fare buckets. Notice that you are shown if a flight is "unavailable" at the fare and time you want. Notice that the customer now has an option of choosing on his own whether to pay a little extra for convenience, or "flex" his schedule for a lower fare. Notice the fare difference between advance purchase and fully refundable.
Next, look at the restrictions on the fare. Notice that there isn't any change penalty. Notice that there isn't any "use it or lose it penalty". Notice that there aren't any Saturday stay requirements.
Now try that on US. Chances are that if the "low fare" offered doesn't meet your needs, one that is better suited might cost significantly more. Or, notice that if a lower fare is available, and you click on that option, you are presented with a 4 stop itinerary that takes 10 or more hours to complete.
Now, imagine that the traveller isn't internet active and calls the reservations agent. How much time do they have to spend with the customer going over the multitude of fares that will also meet his schedule?
I'm not saying to become another SWA. I'm only saying that by dropping the difference between your advance and your "unrestricted" fares, you might do more to entice and keep businesses booking you. The fare games only serve to keep your prime customers out "price shopping".
It's SIMPLIFICATION, pure and simple. And not trying to nickle and dime the passengers with change fees and that sort of BS. I am a bit disgusted that the "value fares" offered by AA and UAL are still chocked full of restrictions and penalties...even for a last minute flight. Any changes, and you're still paying out the fines. Airlines are about the only business that seems intent on penalizing the customer.