Airlines give flyers unprecedented choice
Time and again, customers indicate affordability is their chief consideration: Opposing view
Thanksgiving is a time for celebration and gratitude as millions of Americans gather to break bread and reflect on what we’re most thankful for. The U.S. airline industry helps fulfill this cherished tradition by safely connecting friends and family around the world, providing more flight options to more destinations at historic low fares.
According to the Transportation Department, inflation-adjusted fares for the second quarter were the lowest of any second quarter ever recorded. Ancillary services included, the average cost of a round-trip flight declined by more than 5 percent year-over-year, to $360 for the first six months of 2018.
Time and again, customers indicate affordability is their chief consideration. Airlines have responded by investing in customized cabin offerings, giving travelers unprecedented choice. Flyers today have access to an airline, a route and amenities they value most at a price point that meets their budget.
OUR VIEW:Thanksgiving travel leaves flyers feeling stuffed
When making modernization decisions, as with daily operations, the safety and comfort of all passengers is paramount. Since January alone, airlines have reinvested more than $13billion in new, larger planes, enhanced technology, and improved premium seating and cabin designs that maximize personal space. The Federal Aviation Administration, which approves seat configurations, has affirmed that U.S. carriers meet federal cabin safety standards.
From check-in to touchdown, airlines fiercely compete to earn each customer. In-flight crews keep passengers safe while making every accommodation to ensure all have a comfortable and enjoyable flight. It would be counterintuitive to provide anything less than a superior product and service.
Between last Friday and next Tuesday, U.S. airlines will connect a record 30.6 million passengers to colleagues, friends, family and loved ones. This Thanksgiving, on behalf of the 720,000 men and women who work for our nation’s carriers, we are grateful to be part of the journey.
Sharon Pinkerton is a senior vice president at Airlines for America, which represents leading U.S. carriers.
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