Competition Gets Fierce Between JetBlue and Southwest Airlines
Thursday, August 20th, 2009
JetBlue and Southwest Airlines are among the most budget-friendly carriers in the U.S. market, and both have become famous for drastic flight reductions, themed promotions and special rate packages for economy class travelers. As the airline industry continues to suffer from the effects of the recession, these two airlines are starting to compete even more fiercely than ever before.
While neither airline offers first class seats on any flight, both are trying to attract a steady market of business customers and trying some fresh new marketing campaigns to stimulate business travel.
JetBlue recently announced its flat-rate unlimited flight program where travelers could travel an unlimited number of flights to select destinations for a fee of $599 for the month. The 'All-You-Can-Jet' pass offers a month of unlimited travel on Jet-Blue-operated flights between any cities in the JetBlue network. The special offer is the first of its kind to offer passengers unlimited access to flights for 30 days, and Southwest Airlines has yet to unveil a similar program.
The unlimited travel program is designed for both business and leisure travelers, but many of the JetBlue ads are honing in on the needs of the jet-setting businessman who can now travel back and forth to offices around the country for one flat fee.
Still, Southwest is trying to compete with JetBlue in a different way. The airline has announced low-priced flights as low as $49 from major cities, and is also promoting its "no baggage fees". The airline lets travelers take two bags on every flight at no extra cost, but there is a modest fee for the third checked bag. JetBlue has counteracted with flights as low as $39 to major cities, and has put the spotlight on its live TV service.
Both airlines are focusing their efforts on both online and offline promotions to strengthen their brand and catch the wave of both leisure and business travelers looking for the lowest rate on airfare.
What side are you on?
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