As a frequent flier, I’ve begun to seriously wonder why the major airlines aren’t following in the footsteps of JetBlue, Southwest, Virgin America, AirTran, and the other “discount” airlines when it comes to offering extremely low airfares, few or no extra fees, and a friendly attitude amongst its flight attendants, ticket counter representatives and customer service personnel.
Many of these discount airlines also still offer free snacks and drinks, plus they’re not charging to check one or two pieces of luggage. They’re also a lot more flexible when it comes to cancelling or changing flights and don’t charge outrageous penalties of $100.00 or more, like the major airlines. (Pay attention United, Delta, American Airlines, US Airways, etc.!)
If you’re looking for truly low airfares with far fewer restrictions and lower (or no) extra fees, but still want comfort and convenience on the airplane, seriously consider booking your future flights on one of the “discount” airlines, like JetBlue, Southwest, Virgin America or AirTran.
Many of these airlines don’t offer their flights through the popular online travel services, so you’ll need to visit each of these airlines’ respective websites directly to compare fares, find flights and make online reservations. In fact, it’s often cheaper to book your airfare online than it is to call these airlines directly on the phone.
When visiting each airline’s website, sign up for their free email mailing list, and you’ll automatically be notified of online sales and special promotions that’ll allow you to save even more money on airfares or complete travel packages.
Simply by shopping around online and visiting the websites of the discount airlines directly, you often don’t have to worry about seven, 14 or 21-day advance purchases, or the traditional need to stay over on a Saturday night to get the lowest airfares.
This afternoon (Monday), I booked a non-stop flight on JetBlue for my mother - from Boston to Oakland, CA, departing tomorrow (Tuesday afternoon), and found a one-way airfare of just $99.00 (plus tax). Other airlines were charging $400.00 or more for a similar one-way, last-minute ticket. That brings me to the point that unlike the major airlines, JetBlue, Southwest, AirTran and Virgin America, for example, allow you to easily and cost-effectively book one way flights.
These airlines typically have fleets of new airplanes that offer comfortable seats featuring private TVs with a selection of cable TV channels (just bring your own headset to avoid a $1.00 or $2.00 charge). Some also now offer Wi-Fi Internet access on the flights (for a low fee). Check with each airline directly to see what in-flight services and amenities are offered.
Oh, and if you’re traveling with a pet, JetBlue is one of the first airlines to offer a really well thought out pet travel program, called JetPaws (www.jetblue.com/jetpaws). And, if you’re a student or senior citizen, be sure to inquire about special discounts offered by these airlines.
After recently flying with several of these “discount” airlines, I’ve become a fan, and I’m confident you will too! Plus, your bank account will appreciate it. One thing to consider before booking a flight that has one or more stops is the length of the layover.
On a recent flight from Boston to San Francisco on JetBlue, I had a three hour layover in Long Beach, CA, which really extended my travel day. Obviously, book a direct flight whenever possible. If you do have a layover, one that lasts between 60 to 90 minutes is ideal. Any shorter, and you run the risk of missing your connecting flight, and any longer means waiting around in an airport. Happy travels!
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