Air travel will never make sense to me...
I searched St. Thomas (US Virgin Islands) after seeing the thread below. Unprompted, it told me I could get round trip airfare on 2 different airlines from Roanoke to St. Thomas for $336. Seems reasonable, right? So on a whim I do Roanoke to Greensboro for the same time period...$358. And Charlotte, $412. Nevermind the fact that American's version of the trip to the Islands goes thru Charlotte.
Please explain it to me like you would a to child...
17 Replies
6mo
Airfare pricing is determined by various factors, including demand, seat availability, and the timing of bookings. Airlines use complex algorithms to set prices for individual flights, often resulting in fluctuating fares based on these variables.
Factors Influencing Airfare Pricing
Base Fare and Additional Costs
Base Fare: This is the initial price of the ticket set by the airline.
Taxes and Fees: Additional charges may include airport fees, fuel surcharges, and service fees for issuing the ticket.
Optional Costs: Some airlines charge extra for services like seat selection and baggage.
Pricing Strategies
Dynamic Pricing: Airlines use algorithms to adjust prices based on demand, seat availability, and booking timing. Prices can fluctuate frequently.
Fare Buckets: Airlines categorize seats into different fare classes, each with its own price and rules. As seats sell, the remaining ones may move into higher fare buckets.
Market Demand: Prices often rise during peak travel times, such as holidays or major events, due to increased demand.
Consumer Behavior
Booking Patterns: Business travelers often book last minute and are willing to pay more, while leisure travelers typically book in advance for lower fares.
Price Comparison: Consumers often compare prices across different platforms, but airlines may not adjust prices based on competitor rates.
Historical Context
Long-Term Trends: Over the past decade, airfares have generally decreased, despite rising costs in other sectors. This is attributed to increased competition and the rise of low-cost carriers.
Understanding these factors can help travelers make informed decisions and find better deals on airfare.
(In response to this post by JoesterVT)
6mo
(In response to this post by JoesterVT)
6mo
price to the Virgin Islands from where you are is $336, and their most efficient way of getting you there is through Greensboro (Airline A) or Charlotte (B).
But if you're JUST going to Greensboro or Charlotte, well, the competitive price for that is different.
(In response to this post by JoesterVT)
K
Kudelski
6mo
(In response to this post by Late 80s Hokie)
6mo
at different times of the year? IE, maybe when reservations are low?
(In response to this post by Kudelski)
6mo
You do sometimes see subsidized rates to the small airports, though -- they're termed Essential Air Services and the government will pay airlines to run those routes to the rural communities have air access.
(In response to this post by Late 80s Hokie)
6mo
you are going to Charlotte, just book flight to St. Thomas and just get off plane....
(In response to this post by JoesterVT)
6mo
ban you for it. Supposedly.
(In response to this post by RTFC)
6mo
Ooops...I missed my connection...In restroom with stomach issues....probably need to just return home in a day or two when it settles down...
Now if you have issues weekly....another story
(In response to this post by HokieNoVA)
6mo
(In response to this post by HokieNoVA)
6mo
(In response to this post by JoesterVT)