Cheaper airfares offered as demand falls

Monday, 9th March 2009

Fares to many long-haul and European destinations are cheaper than they have been in recent years, as carriers try to stimulate the demand for air travel.

London to New York return was available last week for as little as £225, inclusive of charges and taxes, and London to Sydney fares for the summer are on offer for under £600, which is around £200 less than last year.

London to Dubai on Emirates is available for £200, and there are Las Vegas flights available for less than £300.

Premium economy and business class fares are also on sale at British Airways and Virgin Atlantic. Virgin Atlantic is featuring premium economy returns to Hong Kong for just £699.

“It’s a bonanza for consumers,” commented Paul Charles, of Virgin Atlantic. “Airlines are trying to combat the recession by offering ever cheaper fares – the prices available to some destinations are unprecedented.”

Lufthansa has fares to eight European destinations on sale, starting from £49. Ryanair is offering one million one-way flights for just £5, exclusive of fees and charges. Bmibaby has put numerous flights on sale for the spring and summer at 50 per cent off.

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→ Aer Lingus reports loss for 2008
↑ March 2009 news index

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