Are Flights Getting Cheaper or More Expensive?
When it comes to booking a flight, one of the biggest questions on most traveler’s minds is whether flights are getting cheaper or more expensive. The answer to this question is not a straightforward one, as it depends on several factors such as the destination, time of year, and airline. In this blog post, we will explore the trends in flight prices over the years and try to answer this question in detail.
The Rise and Fall of Airline Prices
Over the past few years, there has been a lot of noise surrounding the rise of airline prices. However, it’s essential to note that the prices vary not only by the year, but also by airline and whether peak travel times are involved.
For example, in the United States, domestic airfare prices have generally decreased in the last decade with the average price of a domestic round-trip ticket at $459. That being said, the reduction in price typically excludes luggage fees, seat assignments, etc.
Around the world, airfare prices have historically increased because of rising fuel costs and the global air traffic growth. The past decade presented an abundance of challenges for airlines including factors like Brexit, terrorism, airport congestion and overall uncertainty to the economic environment.
The past century has been one of economic upheavals that have affected almost every segment of society but due to the ongoing changes in the global economy and a rising middle class in many countries, people are travelling more than they ever have before. This is the main reason why airline prices have been fluctuating in recent years.
How to Find Cheap Flights
Though airfare undoubtedly fluctuates, there are ways to ensure that you’re getting a good deal when you book your next flight. Here are some tips to follow:
Book Your Flights in Advance
If you want to save money on your airfare, then book your flight in advance. Airlines typically release their tickets around six months to a year in advance. When you book your flight early, you’ll have access to cheaper tickets that may not be available closer to your intended departure date.
Be Flexible with Your Travel Dates
The more flexible you are with your travel dates, the more likely you are to find a cheaper ticket. If you can travel on weekdays, you’re likely to find a more affordable flight than if you insist on flying on a weekend.
Use Price Comparison Websites
One of the best ways to ensure that you’re getting a good deal on your airfare is to use price comparison websites. These websites compare prices from various airlines and help you find the cheapest flight available. Some popular ones include Expedia, Kayak, and Skyscanner.
Join Airline Reward Programs
If you’re a frequent traveler, it’s a good idea to join airline reward programs. These programs can help you earn points towards free flights and airline upgrades. Additionally, some airlines offer discounts for their reward program members.
Conclusion
So, are flights getting cheaper or more expensive? The answer is that it depends. While there has been a general trend for domestic flights being cheaper, prices around the world have increased due to inflation, global growth and other economic factors. Regardless of the overall trend, there are still many ways to save money on your airfare by planning your trip ahead, being flexible and using comparison websites. By following these tips, you can ensure that you’re getting a good deal on your next flight.