US airlines end fare war on last-minute tickets

Airline Industry Information, August 13, 2002

AIRLINE INDUSTRY INFORMATION-(C)1997-2002 M2 COMMUNICATIONS LTD

A number of major US airlines have ended a fare war over last-minute tickets.

The fare war, allegedly led by Northwest Airlines and American Airlines, saw some fares reduced by 40%. However, over the weekend the published fares for tickets with no advance purchase requirements were returned to their original levels.

Northwest has restored its pre-1 August business and coach fares, but is now offering 5% to 10% discounts for customers who buy tickets from a travel agent or directly from the airline.

American, United, Delta and Continental matched Northwest's move to return business fares to their earlier, higher levels, reported The Associated Press.

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