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.
Can we please just get an executive order to drill ANWR, drill off-shore and to take off the clean burning fuel mandates on petroleum that is AGAIN driving gas prices through the roof? These oil prices are causing problems across the board and it's time to take affirmative steps to stop it. "We're addicted to oil" just doesn't cut it. I thought the president removed these fuel mandates last year after Katrina when pump prices shot up. Why the hell were they put back in place?
Agree on ANWR, but I disagree on everything else. It's about time the airlines actually tried to make money, instead of conserving their quaint but inefficient business models that rely on government subsidies at teh slightest hint of a financial problem. Why is it that Southwest and Jet Blue make money, but these guys can't?
(Denny Crane: "I Don't Want To Socialize With A Pinko Liberal Democrat Commie. Say What You Like About Republicans. We Stick To Our Convictions. Even When We Know We're Dead Wrong.")
On some airlines I'd gladly pay extra for a parachute.
What? You don't remember pay toilets?
Or to be moved away from the Jehovah's Witness.
No union and newer planes
Where do you go when the JW's have taken up all the middle seats ?
Airlines should invest in nuclear-powered engines. If battleships use them, why can't airlines?
I can see it now. Coin operated drop-down oxygen masks, for when the cabin depressurizes. They can work a deal with the US Mint, and have the slots only accept $1.00 Sad Sack coins.
There is a future for you in marketing, my FRiend.
The aisle seat is not an "Amenity". Its a seat. Since when are seats fancy-shmancy amenities? Its like saying I didnt pay for any of the rest of the ticket.
Just raise the ticket price, why dont you, if youre having such problems making ends meet.
And as for ANWR... I think this whole price raise thing as far as oil is concerned is a big scam.. a few years will tell us the truth, and we'll know. Somebodys playing the system for all its worth...
Or what about a giant hydrogen fuelled aircraft.. oh wait.. theyve already tried that.. didnt work out so well, did it?
(Denny Crane: "I Don't Want To Socialize With A Pinko Liberal Democrat Commie. Say What You Like About Republicans. We Stick To Our Convictions. Even When We Know We're Dead Wrong.")
I am a military retiree. If I can't get an AF "hop", I make other arrangements.
I might pay extra for exit row seats, though.
From someone who obviously has never flown First Class.
Then you can charge your row mates a toll every time they want to use the bathroom.On long flights you can really clean up.
they can elect to skip the aisle seats.
But then what happens when the window and middle seats are full? Then you're screwed.
I wonder if they would give you some cash back if you agreed to sit in the middle seat?
Disclaimer: Opinions posted on Free Republic are those of the individual posters and do not necessarily represent the opinion of Free Republic or its management. All materials posted herein are protected by copyright law and the exemption for fair use of copyrighted works.