When United bought Continental for $3 billion in early May, they created the world’s largest airline and took one less player out of the airline industry. Any time competition is reduced, there tends to be an upward pressure on price. During December, American Airlines, United Continental, Delta, and Southwest all raised their round-trip ticket prices by about $10. However, price increases are also being seen in the form of baggage fees, fare lock-In fees, and various other surcharges. While this makes it difficult to measure the total increase in the cost of flying, one thing is sure: Everyone is paying more to fly.
Business Wire/File
