If you’ve been browsing flights online in hopes of scoring a good price, you’ve probably noticed that it’s not always easy. And individuals seeking luxury air travel services are not exempt from this problem. That’s why it’s so important to monitor the latest antitrust cases alleging fixed prices and other violations in the airline industry. These cases can impact everything from premium services to costs.
Keep reading to learn more about how these legal issues could impact your next business class flight.
Today’s skies have been clouded by recent class-action litigation against the four largest commercial carriers in the U.S. In short, this antitrust litigation alleges conspiratorial practices geared toward increasing airfares and reducing seat capacities on flights. The threat of an airlines class action lawsuit can spur swift efforts to provide more oversight. Consequently, regulators are keeping an eye on actions from major carriers. Mergers and other quiet, behind-the-scenes actions can skew prices and force passengers into choosing from fewer options. Competition is healthy to keep prices fair, and mergers between large carriers like Spirit Airlines and JetBlue, for instance, have been struck down as a result.
Antitrust litigation can affect customers of all economic backgrounds. And for anyone flying first class, you’ll notice limited routes and services. You’ll also pay a steeper price for a better seat. After all, if airlines are trying to reduce capacity, as these lawsuits claim, you’ll have fewer premium seats available on each flight. That translates to more volatile pricing. On the other hand, if antitrust cases result in changes that encourage more competition, luxury travelers will see better prices.
Air travel tends to be convenient, but airline mergers could make dependable routes harder to find. Generally, luxury passengers can find direct routes and premium cabin services. They may be able to access exclusive lounges at airports or priority services. But if there’s not as much competition among carriers, they won’t feel obligated to offer these upgrades for their highest-paying customers.
With ongoing changes to the regulatory landscape, it’s best to stay aware of how airline prices and offerings are shifting. Ultimately, lawsuits create the need for changes, and airline carriers will have to expand capacities and therefore engage in pricing adjustments that could help customers. Alternatively, carriers may feel burdened by legal costs, resulting in higher ticket prices for customers to help offset the financial toll. As another potential outcome, smaller carriers may gain more prominence if major carriers are embroiled in antitrust litigation.
Changes in air travel won’t happen overnight. But passengers need to be mindful of current legal situations that could nudge prices higher or limit route options. Major airline carriers will need to be wise, too, to maintain their brand and earn repeat customers. Smaller carriers may find more visibility during volatile times, too, leading to more competitive fares. Monitor antitrust cases and check premium cabin seat prices frequently to find the best deals.
