Reuters: Airlines predict passenger decline over Labor Day

Airlines predict passenger decline over Labor Day


NEW YORK (Reuters) - Major U.S. airlines will see a 6 percent drop in passengers during the eight-day Labor Day holiday period as high oil prices continue to roil the industry, the airlines' trade organization predicted on Monday.

The Air Transport Association of America (ATA) said that although fuel prices have declined in recent weeks, jet fuel has averaged $160.47 a barrel this summer, 79 percent higher than last summer's price.

Crude oil has retreated from a record high above $147 a barrel on July 11 to around $114 on Monday, but that compares to roughly $72 this time last year and is still far too high for the struggling U.S. airline industry.

To survive, airlines have been making big cuts in routes, staff and capacity, as well as raising fares and introducing fees for checked bags and other services. .......(more)

The complete piece is at: http://www.reuters.com/article/domesticNews/idUSN1844715920080818

High ticket prices, cramped leg room and packed flights. I can put up with all that. But I can no longer stand being harassed by the Transportation Safety Goons. I will not fly unless it's an absolute necessity.