Fewer Passengers Expected to Fly This Summer?
Posted on: Thursday, 15 May 2008, 21:00 CDT
By Cara Baruzzi
Register Staff Record-high jet fuel prices, a shaky economy and airline capacity cuts will lead to fewer passengers flying on U.S. airlines this summer, compared with a year ago, the industry's main trade group said Tuesday.
The Air Transport Association of America, which represents the leading U.S. airlines, released its annual summer forecast in conjunction with Airports Council International-North America.
ATA expects 211.5 million passengers to fly between June 1 and Aug. 31, down about 1 percent from the 214.2 million who few during the same period in 2007. Planes, however, are expected to remain nearly full throughout the summer.
"For a variety of reasons, slightly fewer people will fly this summer and planes will be approaching 85 percent full," said ATA President and Chief Executive Officer James C. May.
Record prices for jet fuel, the weakening economy and airline capacity cuts were cited as the main reasons fewer passengers will take to the skies.
Airlines have been facing myriad financial troubles as they cope with rising fuel costs, leading to cutbacks. In some cases, portions of those soaring costs have been passed on to passengers.
With jet fuel costs nearing $170 a barrel, airlines will be taking "every conceivable step" to minimize delays and improve operating efficiency, according to ATA.
New York area airports, however, are expected to remain "chokepoints" due to their high passenger volume, said May.
"We know that summer travel can be stressful for passengers and airports are well-organized to handle unexpected schedule changes or delays," Greg Principato, president of Airports Council International-North America, said in a written statement. "We will work closely with the airlines and the Transportation Security Administration to ensure safe and smooth operations for travelers."
Among its tips for summer air travelers, ATA urges passengers to:
A--Visit their carrier's Web site within 24 hours of a flight to print out boarding passes if possible, as well as check flight status and baggage policies.
A--Place amenities like medications and baby supplies in carry- on baggage in case of delays.
A--Pack liquids or gels in a carry-on bag, in a one-quart zip- top bag that is easily accessible.
A--Place an identification tag on each piece of luggage, inside and out, with traveler's name and contact information.
(c) 2008 New Haven Register. Provided by ProQuest Information and Learning. All rights Reserved.
Source: New Haven Register
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