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Will prices rise? What about the added fees? What new trends can we expect? Air travel in 2012 is shaping up to be busier and more expensive than 2011. Here's a look at some predictions and a preview of what to expect in the coming year.
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Will Airfare Go Up?
This is the first question on everyone's mind. In 2011, we've seen a whole host of fare increases -- 22 to be exact -- but will that continue in the New Year?
Only nine attempted price hikes actually succeeded in 2011, but the cost of airfare in 2012 will really depend on both passenger demand and fuel prices.
One thing is certain; passenger demand was up in 2011 despite the shaky economy. With increased demand comes an increased fare, so if demand continues to grow in 2012, you can be sure the price will too.
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The less reliable determinant is fuel price. If fuel prices spike higher than their current numbers, airlines will be forced to raise fares regardless of the demand. When this happens, airlines typically reduce the number of flights to cut on fuel costs.
Either way, airlines need to fill up those undesirable middle seats, so you can count on occasional discounts. As always, flying midweek should increase your chance of a great deal in 2012.
Fewer Flights
No matter what happens with fuel prices, the number of aircraft in the sky will likely continue to drop as passengers ride on fuller planes.
Specifically, American Airlines will cut back on services to select markets as part of its bankruptcy restructuring. Southwest, meanwhile, will remove service in many AirTran markets as the airlines' merger moves along.
You can also expect fewer flights to smaller U.S. cities and fewer, fuller flights across the Atlantic, continuing a trend seen over the last decade.
More Fliers
A survey released on Dec. 19 by Travel-Ticker found that, on the whole, travel is on the rise. Forty-four percent of respondents plan on taking more leisure trips in 2012 than they did in 2011, a five percent increase over last year's numbers. Moreover, 96 percent of respondents said they're looking to fit more travel into 2012 if they are able to find good deals in the New Year.
How About the Fees?
