Pros and Cons of Airlines' A La Carte Pricing

Pros and Cons of Airlines' A La Carte Pricing

Many airlines have opted for an a la carte pricing scheme in order to keep fares low in these tough economic times. Now, as fuel surcharges, which once added a significant amount onto the price of tickets, begin to drop, these other added-on charges are becoming more noticeable.

Taxes have always been a part the total price of air travel. But now many airlines have taken the extra fees a bit further. Many charge for checking baggage and for in-flight meals, drinks and entertainment. For these airlines, the a la carte pricing scheme is a way to restore themselves to profitability after a tough year. The thinking behind charging for extras is this: those who want to fly on a budget can just purchase a basic fare, carry-on their luggage and bring their own bottle of water and snacks. Those who want the extras – extra luggage, extra comfort, extra food – can purchase them. In doing so, they will help the airline’s bottom line.

American Airlines is the biggest champion of the a la carte strategy right now. Most fliers say they don’t care for this type of pricing because it is unclear what exactly they are getting and what they will have to pay extra for. Critics say that the a la carte pricing idea is akin to squeezing every nickel and dime out of passengers in a way that is semi-honest at best. Many passengers are complaining about US Airways, which charges extra for pillows and blankets, items that many travelers consider a necessity. There are even jokes about charging a fee to use the bathroom.

Air Canada is trying to take some of the guesswork out of a la carte pricing. Their web site offers different fare levels. Passengers can pre-select a full service fare or a no-frills fare. No frills fliers can purchase additional amenities in flight. The clearer a pricing system is to customers, the more easily they will accept it.