The airlines seem to have made their own travel resolutions, judging by the changes in air travel this year. Not all are just in place to save them money, some are also about innovation and irritation. These are some of their resolutions, in no particular order:
US Airways has made an offer on bankrupt Delta Airlines. Delta says the offer isn't good enough, US Airways says it won't bump up its offer. US Airways has already merged with America West, after a takeover that became known for physical brawls between unions.
US Airways
Delta AirlinesThe rumors have started on United Airlines possibly trying to takeover Continental Airlines. Will there be more than a few airlines left in the United States after all of these takeovers? Time will tell if this trend will continue.
United Airlines
Continental AirlinesThe idea of buying your meals on your flight has increased at a rapid pace over the past several years. And it seems that the options will also increase as this trend continues.
Guess a few airlines are not worried about interference with navigational instruments or passengers. A few airlines are planning to allow passengers to keep their cell phones on during flight. The FAA currently will not allow this on flights to / from / within the United States.
A few airlines are getting MP3 ready so that you can plug in your iPod or your Zen and listen to tunes of your choice. A nice innovation, and vast improvement over the few choices that airlines offer right now.
A few airlines are allowing you access to their executive lounges at a fee if you are not a member. Nice way to while away the time while you wait for your flight.
It saves the airline money, and allows you access to seats earlier - web check-in. Most airlines now have web check-in and some allow you to do so even 24 hours before your flight.
In recent years, airlines have dropped their baggage allowance. A few now offer to cut your airfare a little if you don't check any luggage. And now a few low cost airlines are taking the luggage issue a step further and charging you for any luggage you check in!
Airlines are moving towards making your frequent flyer miles expire sooner. If you don't use them, you will lose them sooner than before.
10. Keep Up the Fuel Surcharges
Fuel prices may have stabilized somewhat, but this doesn't mean that the airlines are going to necessarily drop increased fare tricks such as fuel surcharges. So many airlines have teetered on bankruptcy that it is unlikely any real, permanent airfare costs will drop anytime soon.
