The Inside Scoop To Airline Penalties and How You Can Avoid Them

By Payless Flights | Published: June 26, 2013

We’ve all been there where you realize last minute that you booked your flight to leave on Saturday and all of your friends are leaving on Thursday. You call the airline to change it and you’re faced with a steep penalty fee.

Unfortunately there’s no sure fire way to completely avoid fees, those fees are (mostly) put to good use and are there for a reason. But, here are some ways to lessen or avoid fees if it’s at all possible.

  • Do your research. This is by and far the most important tip we can give you. Look up different airline’s fee pricing and compare them with others. The best way to avoid fees is to know that you won’t be charged them at all.
  • Be wary of “too good to be true” prices on airline tickets. That specific airline may charge astronomical fees to gain a profit. For example, Spirit Airlines has extremely low base fares but they charge you; to pick your seat, if your checked bag is over 40 pounds, if you have a carry-on, and nominal fees that add up quickly.
  • Make sure all of your information is correct. Some airlines charge upwards of $500 to change anything on your ticket, name included. Be sure to spell everything out for them and double check yourself if you’re purchasing online. Every airline has a different fee but spell-checking can save you hundreds.
  • If you’re willing to sit anywhere; look for airlines that offer discounts for waiving your option to choose your seat. It can definitely save you some money on your total airfare. Some airlines also offer discounts if you don’t have a large carry-on or don’t have a checked bag.
  • Look out for new “Bundling” prices to be introduced. Many major airlines will be introducing a bundling package where they will offer up to five items and you can choose two or three for a discounted price. For instance; they will offer to pick your seat, a meal, early check-in and priority boarding. From there, you can pick two to have at a discounted rate. This new option isn’t really saving you much money in the long run but it gives you more freedom as a traveler to customize your flying experience.
  • Bring your own snacks. Major airlines are now charging astronomical prices for what used to be complimentary such as the drinks and peanuts. To avoid this fee altogether, just pack a few snacks in your carry-on.
  • Call the airline’s customer service. Chances are they will work with you to get whatever your issue is, resolved and for no fee at all. Just be nice.

 

 

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Top 10 Destinations For Summer

By Payless Flights | Published: June 25, 2013

Now that summer is upon us, the urge to vacation is becoming more and more widespread. Here’s a look at some of our favorite locations to enjoy.

1. Costa Rica

With it’s long, sandy beaches and it’s plentiful rainforest, Costa Rica has something for everyone. Not only is it extremely affordable once there but it’s also very inexpensive to travel to. Depending on what you enjoy the most, this country has a little bit of everything. There are opportunities to snorkel, ride ATV’s on volcanoes, zipline and even just relax on the beach. Click here for airfare to San Jose.

2. Jamaica

With its pristine beaches and laid back vibe, Jamaica is perfect getaway destination. It’s rich culture invites you in and the climate is always near perfect. Go cliff jumping inland or ride a horse on the beach and enjoy the landscape and island mentality for a week. Negril Airport is currently closed but Montego Bay International has inexpensive flights inbound that are sure to get your dream vacation going.

3. Ecuador

South America has recently become one of the top travel destinations in the last decade. Not only is its immense culture and slower pace of life more attractive to the perpetually busy Americans but to travel within South America is very affordable. Ecuador is no exception; you can visit Ecuador for fairly low airfare but the daily cost of living while there is astonishingly low. Ecuador is home to the Galapagos Islands; a nature and animal mecca, Quito and Guayaquil. Take advantage of the low cost of travel now as it is becoming a hotter and hotter tourist spot.

4. Alaska

Alaska is truly the final frontier and the best time to visit is absolutely late July/ early August. The weather finally clears the temperatures rise to a mild climate everyday. The stunning beauty and untouched quality of nature is astonishing. While there, be sure to visit the calving glaciers as they crash into the sea below and take a ride through Denali National Park to see the great Mount McKinley. Or fly into Anchorage and take the Alaska Rail Road throughout the entire state to see the breathtaking views all around you.


5. Paris

Paris, the city of lights is always a top contender when it comes to summer travel. The clear blue skies behind the Eiffel Tower, the sun shining off the Louvre and the Seine rolling its way through the city. Although flying into Paris can be expensive, seeing it in the summer is truly magnificent. But, if you’re a budget traveler, think about going in the early Fall or late Spring in order to avoid some of the crowds that can gather.

6. Ireland

Ireland is truly as beautiful as you envision it to be. The rolling green hills, the ancient culture that seems to overwhelm all of your senses and the friendliest people on earth. Fly into Dublin and rent a car to leisurely meander through the country or take a guided tour around the West coast. Visit the walled city of Derry, see the mystic Giant’s Casuseway or go to the seven story tall Guinness Museum which has been proclaimed as a Disneyland for beer lovers. Ireland is truly a delight and one of the more beautiful countries in the world.


7. Cambodia

Angkor Wat, the Royal Palace and Priah Vihear Temple are just a glimpse of what Cambodia has to offer. Aside from being extremely affordable, with an average cost of $9/day, Cambodia is home to some of the nicest people on earth. The culture is rich and the history is ancient. Accommodations are widespread and affordable depending on what you’re comfortable staying in. Click here for flights to Phnom Penh.

8. South Africa

Africa has and still is regarded in a way that it almost seems unreachable. It appeals to those whose innate sense of adventure calls them there and those who want to see the wild in its most natural environment. South Africa made our list because it is the most accessible and also has a lot of options once in country. Cradle of Humankind is a majestic wonder and Kruger National Park allows visitors to get up close and personal with animals only ever seen in zoos. Although travel to and from Africa in general is a little more expensive, travelers say that it was the destination of a lifetime and it was always worth every penny.

9. Clearwater, Florida

Clearwater, Florida is located on the Gulf of Mexico on the West coast of Florida. It is home to Major League Baseball teams, some of the best beaches in the world and beach bars galore. While there, you can visit Pier 60 which is home to merchants and street artists that line the pier as you jut out into the Gulf of Mexico. Clearwater Beach is world famous and has been recognized as one of the best beaches and has been recently named Florida’s Best Beach Town. Come for the sun and stay for the fun.

10. Rome, Italy

It’s ancient history and cobblestone lined streets is enough to give any history buff the ride of their life. The Colosseum. The Pantheon, The Arch of Titus and the Ancient Roman Forum are all awe-inspiring and truly amazing. Although hotel prices can get a little steep during summer, look for budget friendly hotels here. To avoid a majority of the crowds, try to travel in early Fall when the temperatures cool down a little and a lot of the school groups stop traveling.

 

 

 

Photos property of Stephanee Bridges

 

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Did You Know: Air Travel Edition

By Payless Flights | Published: June 24, 2013

With summer in full swing, travel is becoming more commonplace. While traveling this summer, here are a few interesting facts to help you understand the travel industry a little better.

  • For those of you who use air travel a lot know that the price of the tickets may vary depending on dates and seasons. Most people travel on the weekends to visit family or for short vacations. It’s the same thing with holidays; therefore, prices are more expensive than usual. Here are some tips to help you get the best deal: the best days to make your reservation is Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. A lot of people buy on Mondays and Fridays which means the heavy traffic causes the prices to go up. Also, do your research and try to book as early as possible. Click here for Payless Flights’ Current Travel Specials.

 

  • You might think that location of your seat at the airplane is not important but that’s not always the case. When the plane takes off and lands; the amplitude pressure is felt the most in the front and the back of the plane. If you have stomach problems avoid seats in the middle column. Also, for those with ear pain on longer flights, look into investing in pressure reducing earplugs for a less uncomfortable flight.

 

  • Most air companies don’t have enough time to clean the plane after every flight. On a majority of the flights they only have time to collect the garbage. Advice from Payless Flights: Always have wet wipes with you so that you can clean the area around you, especially your tray table. It makes for a safer and cleaner flight. International flights are no exception as you’re in the same area for upwards of 12 hours.

 

  • In some airplanes the number 13 is not used. Some passengers are superstitious so the airline companies plan accordingly and skips the row altogether. Next time you’re on a flight, be sure to check if there is a Row 13 at all!

 

  • Another interesting fact is that pilots don’t eat the same food as the passengers. There are usually two pilots in the plane and if one of them gets sick from the food; the other pilot would have to pilot and co-pilot the plane. Instead, the pilots bring their own meals or have a special meal prepared for them. In some cases, like shorter flights, the pilots don’t eat at all until they are grounded. Hence why we see them in the snack line before our flights.
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You can not afford being late for a flight

By Payless Flights | Published: November 8, 2011

I always advice passengers to be at least 2.3h before the flight at the ticket counter. If you are late airline can even refuse you boarding. Lufthansa’s email note today came to show how right I was:
Notice Overbooking of Flights – Airline flights may be overbooked, and there is a slight chance that a seat will not be available on a flight for which a person has a confirmed reservation. If the flight is overbooked, no one will be denied a seat until airline personnel first ask for volunteers willing to give up their reservation in exchange for compensation of the airline’s choosing. If there are not enough volunteers, the airline will deny boarding to other persons in accordance with its particular boarding priority. With few exceptions, including failure to comply with the carrier’s check-in deadline, which are available upon request from the air carrier, persons denied boarding involuntarily are entitled to compensation. The complete rules for the payment of compensation and each airline’s boarding priorities are available at all airport ticket counters and boarding locations.

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All Americans Can Travel Legally to Cuba–With Exceptions

By Payless Flights | Published: June 30, 2011

On Tuesday, Insight Cuba, a division of Cross Cultural Solutions, which specializes in short-term volunteer abroad programs, was reauthorized by the U.S. Treasury Department’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) to send Americans to Cuba.

When the Obama administration reversed the previous administration’s policy and posted new travel regulations allowing People-to-People educational travel, Insight Cuba was among the first to submit its application for a new license.

The People-to-People initiative requires Americans to take part in various cultural experiences in Cuba, essentially, as the name implies, putting them in direct contact with the people of Cuba with hopes of learning about the way of life in the country. It was implemented by President Clinton in 1999 and suspended by President Bush in 2004 before President Obama resurrected the program this January.

You do not have to be a certain age, do not have to have family in Cuba and do not have to be students. You merely have to register for one of Insight Cuba’s People-to-People programs, which includes visiting the studio of a local artist, going to an elementary school and meeting with the students and teachers, visiting jazz institutes, meeting farmers who grow tobacco and more.

“These trips are a bit more stimulating than your regular, relaxing vacation where you are just going to pull out a lounge chair and sit on the beach all day,” Tom Popper, director of Insight Cuba. “There is usually a full program that we require all of our applicants to take part in, but we also offer some free time in the afternoon and at night.”

Before the program was suspended in 2004, Popper says Insight Cuba was sending roughly 250,000-500,000 American to Cuba annually. Popper says he expects that number to grow this time around to roughly 500,000-700,000 annually. In fact, Popper says Insight Cuba is already in heavy discussions to partner with a major U.S. tour operator, but could not give us further details.

Insight Cuba will be offering three, inaugural trips to Cuba from August 11-18 and a fourth from August 11-19. The program will begin regular operations in September, Popper says.

“My personal philosophy is people who travel internationally, people with the travel bug, always remember the people they met on their trips,” Popper says. “If you ask someone coming back from a trip what their fondest memory was, I bet it had something to do with the people of the country they visited. We try to provide that for you. When we provide you with the opportunity to visit people and places in Cuba, you get injected into a culture. And those are usually the memories you walk away with.”

For more information on travel to Cuba call us 1800-890-3731

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Hurricane-Free Paradise on the ‘ABC’ Islands

By Payless Flights | Published: June 18, 2011

For a variety of reasons, Americans typically don’t head to the Caribbean in summer. Many prefer to visit stateside beaches, or explore the capitals of Europe, rather than spend their vacation on tropical islands. And then there’s the ever-present risk of hurricanes, a major factor keeping tourists away.

The secret, however, is that there are several islands outside the traditional hurricane belt that enjoy pleasant summer weather and also experience the price drop associated with summer in the Caribbean. Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao, known as the “ABC Islands” may be ideal destinations for a summer Caribbean getaway.

Best yet, these islands offer a diverse array of options for any traveler, with affordable prices to reflect the low season. And despite it being summer, trade winds blow in from the east, keeping the islands’ temperatures comfortable. Whether you want just to relax on the beach, snorkel or dive in world-famous waters, golf, shop, or sample a host of cuisines, these islands offer a multitude of attractions to suit any type of traveler.
Aruba

Aruba is a well-developed paradise. Resorts line many of the island’s white sand beaches; boats and jet skis ply the aquamarine waters; and casinos, performance venues, and bars give the island more nightlife than its neighbors. The island is a popular place for wreck diving and snorkeling, and it hosts an international amateur windsurfing tournament each year.

However, Aruba also offers appeal uncommon for a beachy island destination. Its burgeoning culinary scene blends international influences with local flavors, providing a welcome break from the bland-and-forgettable approach to food taken by many tourist-friendly tropical destinations. And, in Arikok National Park, you can find miles of hiking trails that feel more than an island away from the beaches and buffets of the coast. Off-road tours give visitors the chance to see the rugged northern coast, and day trips to San Nicolas in the south offer a glimpse at the island’s laid-back, Caribbean side.

Summer continues to be considered low season on the island, though as more people discover the pleasant temperatures and lower prices of the season, it may not remain so for long. The airport is served by 17 commercial airlines, including popular low-cost carrier JetBlue.

* I checked prices for seven-night airfare-and-hotel packages in August, based on two people traveling together from New York. Packages started at $711 per person, including all taxes and fees.
Bonaire

When you go to Bonaire, you visit a place where the people have put the island first. Nearly three decades ago, Bonaire declared the waters surrounding the island a marine park. It was a move that preserved the small island’s coast and coral reefs, and today has made it one of the world’s top destinations for scuba and snorkeling.

It’s no surprise then, that diving and snorkeling are the big draws. Dive resorts, complete with dive centers, on-site experts, classes, and equipment lockers dot the island. Be sure to check out the dive and snorkel spots off the white-sand beaches of Klein Bonaire, the tiny island tucked into the crescent of Bonaire.

Bonaire is also known as an ideal locale for bird watching. Its almost 200 species of birds include flamingos, parrots, and herons. It’s also a choice destination for those who want to do…nothing. The slow pace and lack of crowds give visitors room to relax. If the kicking back gets old, bicycling, sightseeing, and kayaking can fill the warm and breezy days.

Bonaire has less direct air service than the other islands, though there are plenty of options for flights via nearby centers. Continental offers direct service from Houston. Air Jamaica flies between the island and Jamaica. And Dutch Antilles Express flies between Aruba, Curacao, and Bonaire, while Divi Divi Airlines flies from Curacao. Since Aruba and Curacao are served by more airlines, these short-hop flights open up the options for getting to and from Bonaire.

* I checked prices for airfare in August, based on two people traveling together from New York. Round-trip flights started at $548 per person, including all taxes and fees.
Curacao

Amid tropical palm trees and historic buildings painted vibrant pinks, yellows, blues, and golds, you may hear Curacao’s locals speaking any one of four languages: Dutch, Papiamentu, English, and Spanish. The island boasts many types of cuisine, from beachside seafood bars to elegant steakhouses, and a lively nightlife scene. And cultural options include a slave history museum, the oldest Hebrew synagogue still in use in the Western Hemisphere, and historic architecture. You could spend your whole vacation at the beach, but you’d be missing out on what this unique island has to offer.

No trip to Curacao is complete without a tour of Willemstad, the island’s capital city and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, visitors can see Dutch architecture, shop, dine at fine restaurants, take a Caribbean cooking class, and spend an evening at a local lounge or nightclub for salsa dancing, live music, and tropical drinks. Cultural travelers and those interested in history may want to spend an afternoon at the Kura Hulanda Museum, which chronicles the slave trade.

Around the island, visitors can tour the Den Paradera herb garden, full of natural remedies and soothing plants; the Curacao Ostrich and Game Farm, where you can feed the ostriches; and the Curacao Sea Aquarium, to view sea turtles, sharks, and other marine wildlife up close.

For beaches, locals consider Big Knip, Kas Abou, and Porto Marie among the loveliest. Other outdoorsy travelers can find adventure activities both on land and sea, with plenty of dive and snorkeling options, horseback riding, and hiking.

* I checked prices for seven-night airfare-and-hotel packages in August, based on two people traveling together from New York. Packages started at $701 per person, including all taxes and fees.
Depending on your travel preferences, you can have a Caribbean vacation that’s relaxed, rugged, cultural, or culinary—or perhaps a combination of everything.

Regardless of what island you visit, Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao can offer a Caribbean vacation free of hurricane woes. And with casinos, diving, hiking, and culture, not to mention the beaches and low-season prices, you may find yourself planning a return visit next summer.

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First-class airline seats: disappearing species

By Payless Flights | Published: June 16, 2011

United Airlines as it completes its merger with Continental is bucking at least one trend: it is adding first-class seats.

These have been steadily disappearing from international flights in recent years, a trend accelerating as business travelers were forced to cut costs to cope with the recession.

Some airlines such as Delta replaced first-class with categories such as “business elite” seats, reports the Ventura County Star.

Last year, Qantas Airways replaced first-class seats with business-class seats on all its Boeing 747-400 planes, saying it was responding to “changing demands.”

“The economy has dictated the move away from premium seats, especially during the recession,” said Rick Seaney, founder of farecompare.com, told the newspaper.

On international flights, Continental offers only economy seating and a “BusinessFirst” section that includes special meals and “flat bed” seats that fully recline.

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10 of the cheapest holiday destinations in the world

By Payless Flights | Published: June 13, 2011

The following destinations may cost just a little more than a dollar a day – but you’ll definitely be able to make your money go far in these great value spots.

1. Cambodia

With beds for $2 and lip-smacking food for less, Cambodia is so cheap you often feel guilty for paying so little. Smiling faces greet you at every turn of this diverse and dramatic country. The jewel in the crown, and one of the most amazing historical sites in the world, Angkor Wat, is found here too. Spiritual, sublime and yours $5 a day…or less! Get flights to Phnom Penh

2. Vietnam

Unspoilt and undeveloped, Vietnam is super cheap and simply beautiful. You can easily get by on $8 a day, which includes a guest house, local food, transport and a bit of drinking. Just imagine the lifestyle you could have if you stretched to $16! Get flights to Hanoi

3. India

Get ready for a sensory explosion in colourful, crazy India. From chaotic Delhi and gaudy Mumbai, to tranquil Kerala and spiritual Mysore; pink cities, grand palaces, elephants and rickshaws are just a handful of mind boggling sights you’ll see in India. Even if you go for all out luxury, you’ll be hard pressed to spend a lot of money here. For $30 a day, you can live like royalty. Get flights to Delhi

4. Bolivia

In the heart of La Paz’s historic quarter, Calle Jaén, you’ll find one of the best preserved colonial streets in the whole of Bolivia. It definitely has style but it also has four municipal museums. See them all for the grand total of 55 cents. As if that weren’t enough, Bolivia is perhaps the best value for food and drink in all of South America, thanks to a bottle of Paceña beer costing less than $1 and a bowl of chairo (potato soup) about the same. Get flights to La Paz

5. Hungary

Historical Hungary nestles along the formidable Danube River, and is a definite must see. The elegant grandeur of the capital, Budapest, is a stunning example of old Europe with more than a hint of Ottoman Empire. Sink into sublime cakes, strong liquor and some of the most amazing thermal spas in the world. With meals for $5, train tickets for $4 and rooms for $20, this is a beautiful bargain the in heart of ancient Europe. Get flights to Budapest

6. Central America

Pristine Nicaragua and Honduras may look like celebrity destinations but they are actually incredibly cheap. Few tourists, sparkling waters and pristine beaches can all be yours. Soak up the stunning white beaches and out of this world diving in Honduras while spending less than $30 a day. Forget your money worries and have another cocktail! Get flights to Tegucigalpa

7. Bulgaria

Eastern Europe is a bargain compared to its western neighbours. The further east you go, the cheaper it gets. Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria offers hearty food, warm company, robust drink and a comfy bed, which can all be yours for just$30 a day. Forget Paris crowds and mobbed London streets; sample a slice of Europe without breaking the bank. Get flights to Sofia

8. Sri Lanka

With gossamer fine sands, cloud-wrapped mountains, waterfalls, tea plantations and palm trees wafting in the breeze, Sri Lanka is the picture perfect paradise. Feast on delicately spiced cuisine while exploring a land of ancient kingdoms and deep spirituality. What will relax you even more is knowing you can live like a king on under $50 a day. Get flights to Colombo

9. Argentina

Amazing Argentina is land of fiery tango, feisty football, food and awesome landscapes. Tuck in to mammoth meaty steaks washed down with big bold reds, or live the high life in spirited Buenos Aires, one of the most flamboyant and colourful cities on earth. The life can be yours for less than$40 a day. Find flights to Buenos Aires

10. Greece

Due to a recent economic crisis, Greece is cheaper than it used to be. Grab a bed for a tenner and a meal for $10 among the olive groves under bright blue skies. Tour beautiful Greek islands like Paxos and bask on the beaches while eating mouth-watering food at a fraction of the price of other European countries. Greece is, quite possibly, the most underrated budget destination in Europe. Get flights to Athens

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The Truth About International Airline Tickets

By Payless Flights | Published: May 23, 2011

It has been awhile that I am trying to get a word out about the international airfare. What is negotiated fares? Why our fares are not found on major websites like Expedia? I run on this article that I find interesting by Edward Habrouck :

“Unlike domestic fares in the USA, international airfares remain regulated, and the official fares published by the airlines give little indication of the actual prices at which agents sell tickets on those airlines. It’s as much a waste of time to consult Travelocity, Expedia or any other Web site for airfares (especially for more complex, long-haul, or multi-stop itineraries) as it is to call a travel agent (rather than checking airline fares yourself on the Web) for travel within North America.

The differences between domestic and international airfares are largely due to the differences in how they are, or are not, regulated. Unlike deregulated domestic USA airfares, international airfares are regulated both by international treaties and by an international airline price-fixing cartel, the International Air Transportation Association (IATA).

It’s worth noting that every USA-based airline operating scheduled international passenger flights has voluntarily joined IATA. USA airlines’ invocations of “open markets”, “free trade”, and “open skies” can be dismissed as completely hypocritical and self-serving drivel until such time as they exercise their right to withdraw from IATA, as any of them could at any time. USA airlines are allowed to participate in IATA “traffic conferences” only because of a special exemption granted them from USA anti-trust laws which normally forbid such industry-wide collusion on prices.

Why do airlines join IATA? What is the reason for any cartel? It exists to keep prices, and airlines’ profits, artificially high.

International airfares are set by international agreement and regulated by the airline cartel, IATA. Most international airlines are closely related to, if not directly owned by, their national governments. Most governments in turn have an interest in protecting the profits of their national airline, and the IATA fares are therefore set artificially high.

As a condition of membership in IATA, airlines agree (voluntarily, remember) to sell tickets only at IATA-approved prices. IATA rules officially prohibit discounting, and in some countries these rules are actually enforced — one reason some countries have no local ticket discounters (although tickets originating in those countries can often be bought in other countries, if you know where to look).

Airlines like the cartel because it raises the prices paid by price-insensitive business travelers. But it’s not the whole story. If airlines sold tickets only at IATA fares, they would have too many empty seats that might be salable at less-than-official prices.

The revenue-maximization problem for the airlines is how to get some money for seats that can’t be filled at official fares, without destroying the benefits of the cartel by allowing people who would be willing to pay full fare to get away with paying any less.

The system the airlines have developed for preserving the cartel while actually selling discounted tickets at less than official fares relies on the intermediary of the travel agency, and the loophole that neither IATA nor international airfare treaties restricts how much commission an airline can pay an agent for selling a ticket. So the airline can pay a large commission to a travel agent, then turn its back and avert its eyes while the travel agent rebates some portion of the commission to the traveler.

All sales of international tickets on scheduled airlines at less than official fares are made through travel agencies, not directly by the airlines, and ultimately depend on rebating of commissions by travel agents to customers. This is how travel agencies can and do, quite legally, offer lower prices for international tickets than the airlines themselves.

Airlines know what is happening, of course, but they have to pretend they don’t. In order to maintain plausible deniability and keep their hands clean with IATA, airlines must maintain the fiction that all tickets are sold at official fares. Since airlines cannot admit that they are even aware of discounting, airlines cannot admit to any knowledge of agents’ actual discounted selling prices. Strange but true: by the nature of the system of discounting, airlines do not usually know themselves, and couldn’t admit to knowing if they did, by which agents or at what prices their tickets are most cheaply sold.

All official fares are “published” either in hardcopy in the Official Airline Guides (OAG) or the Air Tariff, or electronically in the computerized reservation systems (CRS’s) such as Sabre, Apollo, Amadeus, Worldspan, and Gabriel. By the very nature of the IATA price-fixing system, airlines cannot admit any knowledge of the fact that agents are selling tickets for less than the official fares. So only published fares are shown in any CRS. Since all the major CRS’s are owned by the airlines, no CRS contains any publicly accessible information on agents’ actual discounted selling prices.

The glut of official international fare information available through gateways to CRS’s such as GetThere.com, Travelocity,  Expedia, etc. is deceptively comprehensive-seeming and impressive but fundamentally useless in finding discounted prices. If you want to pay less than the official international fare, you have to buy your ticket from an agent who gives discounts, not from an airline directly or from a source (such as a CRS Web site) that is limited to published fares. “

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SFO to welcome first scheduled A380 flight

By Payless Flights | Published: May 9, 2011

Lufthansa will begin operating its daily flight from Frankfurt tomorrow with the world’s largest commercial airplane. The A380, which will replace the Boeing 747-400 on the route, will transport up to 526 passengers in three service classes on two levels. The flight time will be about the same (a little more than 11 hours), but the sight of the huge plane landing over the San Francisco Bay will be a win for the entire region.

SFO will be Lufthansa’s second A380 U.S. destination (after New York’s JFK) and only the third airport in the country to get daily A380 service. Qantas flies the plane every day to Los Angeles International Airport from Sydney, and Lufthansa, Air France, and Emirates regularly serve JFK, but San Francisco beat out heavy hitters like Chicago, Houston, and Miami (the latter will start A380 flights on June 10) for the bronze medal.

Though Lufthansa and SFO will point to San Francisco’s popularity with business and leisure travelers, the airport was the first in the nation to be able to accommodate the airplane (LAX, for example, had to reposition taxiways and a runway to make room for the immense 261-foot wingspan). What’s more, SFO’s decade-old International Terminal was specifically designed to accommodate the double-decker aircraft with jetways that could board each deck simultaneously. SFO first hosted the A380 on a “working visit” back in 2007, but this will be your first chance to actually buy a ticket.

The flight arrives at 12:05 p.m. PT. It then spends a few hours on the ground before heading back to Germany.

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