Flying the Unfriendly Skies

Travel Plans

by Mustang

The price of an airline ticket — up 25% since the first of June — the most significant jump since 1989, and up from the 18.6% spike in April 2022.  But those high prices aren’t keeping any Americans home … no, sir.  According to Bank of America, personal spending on airline fares has increased 60% — with the demand creating havoc among the airline companies to get those planes in the air.  Of course, Americans are geniuses; those airline tickets are being purchased with credit cards.  What?  Me Worry?

No one who expects to make money by investing in the stock market is interested in the airlines; they’re a losing proposition unless you’re one of the big boys.  Since the beginning of China’s virus, airlines have been drowning in debt and clawing their way back to profitability — or at least to break even.   With travel restrictions lifted and people giddy to leave their homes no matter the cost, the airlines couldn’t have been more ecstatic.  Why?  Because there is more demand than there are seats.

Meanwhile, jet fuel prices have increased 150% over the past twelve months.  Oops … the airlines also do not have enough pilots and flight attendants, who, by the way, are demanding higher salaries.  Economists describe this as “market forces at work.”  Here’s an example of what that means: pre-Biden, a round-trip fare from Philadelphia to Los Angeles, costs $320.00.  Now it costs $685.00.  But what the hell … it’s only money.

Well, there is a bottom line to this … if you’re clever, you can still travel at twice the cost (thanks to your president).  You begin with a travel agent, who will charge you a fee for booking but they are reliable.  It’s only money.  Hint: it’s in the packages.  Also, if you’re an elderly socialist, you can contact AARP for “complimentary travel agent access.”

Another cheap way is to book your travel on an inexpensive airline — but always insist on a plane with wings firmly attached.  And seats.  You may have to settle for stale peanuts, though.  Some companies like Spirit Airlines or Sun Country.  Companies no one had ever heard of before now.  And you can mix up your travel plans.  For example, instead of flying to an international airport to catch an international flight, travel experts suggest you take a train to the international airport … train tickets are cheaper.  And, it will be cheaper to vacation in Slobovia than in the Fiji Islands.

Or, maybe you’re just like the rest of us.  We can’t afford the vacation, we can’t afford to charge up our credit cards, and we have no confidence in this country’s economic future … at least not in the near term.  Oh, and also … elections have consequences.  If you’re reading this blog regularly, you know what I’m talking about.

Mustang also blogs at Fix Bayonets and Thoughts From Afar