Ripping Us Off

Anyone who remains in any doubt about whether travellers to Bermuda are being ripped off by the airlines should read the letter from James Howes, General Manager of Bermuda International Aiport, in today's Bermuda Sun.

He notes that before United Airlines announced its new direct flight from Chicago to Bermuda, the lowest published return fare between the two locations in May was $790 including taxes. The next day, all the other airlines reduced their fares on that route by 30% to match United's price of $556.

Assuming that the airlines are not now operating that route at a loss, that they are able to hack $234 off the cost of a ticket when faced with some competition shows the degree to which passengers have been ripped off until now.

I expect it's the same story on every other Bermuda route.

Comments

[Saba on 19.02.04 at 14:20]

Odd. I went to Expedia.com and reserved flight on United for the month of June from Chicago to Bermuda and it cost me over $700. Perhaps I will try the Jetpack that Dr. Eric Smith created just for me and see if it works.

[Robina on 19.02.04 at 20:47]

Last week I booked a return flight to England for $325.40 ex Boston. Tapped in the same dates today for a return trip to Bda.....$711.oo. I get 772 flyer miles to Bermuda and 3250 to England each way. Much as I love Bermuda...guess which one I go for at this time of year? And yes...do agree with you re the cruiseships. Hate waking up and having a funnel in my face! Not to mention the smell of breakfast cooking.

Robina...A Limey in NH.

[The Limey on 19.02.04 at 23:27]

Saba - It depends when you travel. The direct flight from Chicago to Bermuda is only once per week, on a Saturday. If you travel out and return on a Saturday you should get the lower price.