“Just when you think they can’t give the customers any less in the airlines business…” Brian Williams, NBC News, July 27, 2010. He was referring to a “self-boarding” process being tested by Continental Airlines in Houston, but hasn’t it just been the year for airline revenue “segmentation.” According to Consumer Reports: “domestic airlines raked in $7.8 billion in “ancillary” revenue last year, with baggage fees alone accounting for $2.7 billion of that total. Although American is selling the bundle as a comprehensive collection of services, this is not completely uncharted territory. United Airlines offers Premier Line, a $19 option that provides travelers with “fast track” access through check-in and security, as well as priority boarding. And for $10 one-way, Southwest Airlines offers EarlyBird Check-in; however, Southwest does not offer assigned seating, so this option allows passengers priority boarding to select preferred seats ahead of the pack.” http://blogs.consumerreports.org/money/2010/06/american-airlines-adding-new-fees-earn-revenue-your-choice-priority-boarding-discount-change-itinerary-standby.html
The not so friendly skies…
30
Jul
