Domestic airfare costs down

The average domestic airfare was $353 from April-through-June, down about 10 percent from the same period in 2015, according to the U.S. Transportation Department. The average is the lowest since the fourth quarter of 2010 (at $335). When adjusted for inflation, the $353 average is the lowest since the third quarter of 2009 (at $343). Critics of the airline industry point out that despite falling airfares, airlines continue to generate hefty revenues from passenger fees like back-checking and changing flights. Those fees add up quickly. The Airlines for America trade group for U.S. airlines contends that surveys show most passengers want a low fare and the choice of paying for extras. Also, competition from low-cost carriers – such as Spirit and Frontier - is helping keep prices down. (Source: LA Times 10/25/16)