As
of March 30th air restrictions governing which carriers
can fly which European routes are no longer in effect.
The "open skies agreement" allows air
fares to Europe to be set by consumers not the airlines.
This is great news. The airline industry is giving
fliers something to cheer about for once. And just
in time for summer vacations.
Up
to now, trans-Atlantic flights followed rules set
between the US and each individual European nation.
The pacts required airlines to take off or land
in their native countries and limited which airlines
could service which airports. These restrictions
have now been lifted and the open market will now
determine who flies where.
The
earliest changes come to Heathrow airport near London.
Considered one of the worst big hubs by many frequent
fliers, Heathrow will be served by Continental,
Northwest and Delta for the first time ever. Great
news for brand followers. And sure to spark fare
wars. Bad news for fliers landing at Heathrow until
it finds ways to update and upgrade its services.
Plan a little extra time for airport hassles as
the number of flights increase at least 31% by July.
“If
you are planning a European vacation,
let
the dust settle and see who is going
where
and for how much.”
Later
this year San Francisco, Orlando and Washington
will get their first nonstop flights to Dublin on
Aer Lingus. Flights by European carriers on the
Continent will more than likely see aggressive competition.
Ryanair CEO Michael O'Leary has plans for a new
airline that will fly the secondary airports on
either side of The Pond for a base rate of under
$20 !! Yaaahooo-Let the games begin!
If
you are planning a European vacation, wait as long
as you dare to book your flight. Let the dust settle
and see who is going where and for how much. Base
prices will look great but don't forget to add on
the fuel surcharge. The real sales will seen if/when
the price of fuel goes down.
The bad news to go with this good news: You will
be paying for that second and third checked bag.
The fee will vary with airlines, but expect something
around $25 on Delta. Fliers in first and business
class are exempt.
