Posted on 03/14/2006 2:04:00 PM PST by MikeA
By CHICAGO (Reuters) - Struggling U.S. airlines, looking for new ways to generate revenue, are getting bolder about charging for pretty much anything that makes air travel a little more comfortable -- including aisle seats.
First came charging passengers for in-flight meals. Then, reservations done by phone cost extra. And now, one major airline, Northwest Airlines Corp. (NWACQ.PK: Quote, Profile, Research), is trying to charge passengers for the right to sit in aisle seats and emergency-exit rows.
The day is coming when carriers will require special fees even to check a bag, experts say.
Analysts told Reuters that travelers should brace for more nickel and diming as airlines seek to recoup losses from soaring fuel costs and competitive pressures. Airlines are likely to test passengers' willingness to pay for an ever wider array of services.
"We're just scratching the surface. I think 2006 is going to bring a tremendous amount of changes," said Terry Trippler, an analyst with travel Web site Cheapseats.com.
"I think it's going to be the difference between a black bottom line and a red one," he said.
Bankrupt Northwest this week unveiled a program called Coach Choice in which the carrier will save some preferred coach seating on the aisle or emergency-exit rows until check-in. Passengers can pay $15 per flight to sit in those seats, which may offer more room.
Airlines has been weakened by rising fuel prices and low-fare competition that keeps ticket prices low. In recent years, carriers have been trying to cut costs by eliminating expendable services and perks. AMR Corp's (AMR.N: Quote, Profile, Research) American Airlines and Delta Air Lines (DALRQ.PK: Quote, Profile, Research) last year eliminated pillows on domestic flights.
"It's certainly a trend. I expect to see more of it," said Morningstar equity analyst Chris Lozier. "I had never even considered the possibility of charging for aisle seats. It's definitely being taken to extremes at this point."
Lozier said airlines must be careful when implementing programs like Northwest's. Carriers run the risk of alienating customers if they charge for services or seats that do not have special fees attached at other airlines.
Most carriers have cut meal service on shorter flights in the coach section. Many have begun charging for food, drinks and entertainment that used to be free. Continued ...
© Reuters 2006. All Rights Reserved.
Me too. I would even be willing to pay a few bucks extra for a window seat if need be. I've never been able to figure out the advantage of a aisle seat. Sure, they have the advantage of an easier exit to the toilet. Some advantage that is though, when I have to climb over them to answer natures call.
I book Continental almost exclusively (Houston is a Continental hub). I always use Continental's site for the best pricing. I never use those "bargain sites". Continental is usually cheap-the "bargain sites" add a little so they can make something.
What I want to know is:
why is it that Southwest and AirTran can seem to make a profit in the US airline industry, but nobody else can?
And Southwest fares are CHEAPER than the others!
Wow...you made your point so well you posted it 5 times!
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