While the past year or so has seen environmentalists float the possibility of personal individual carbon allowances or budgets that could in theory implement a quota limiting the number of flights you can take in a lifetime or the number of kilometers flown, the airline industry is, in contrast, trying to woo passengers with the concept of a pass to take to the skies all year round.
It seems like Ryanair's 99-pence or 10-pound airline tickets are already relics, something from the distant past. Last summer, the Irish airline's CEO warned that the skyrocketing price of kerosene would put an end to those kinds of ultra-affordable ticket prices. And the effects are being felt. Hopper's report on 2023 summer travel indicates that while domestic flights in the US is relatively stable, "airfare to Europe and Asia this summer is already the highest it’s been in more than 5 years, with trips to Europe averaging over $1,100 per ticket and trips to Asia averaging over $1,800 per ticket. Both have increased more than $300 per ticket compared to last summer." Meanwhile, airfare for intra-regional flights within Europe are expected to be an average of 5.5% higher for economy class according to American Express's Air Monitor Report.
With airfares soaring, airlines are devising a host of strategies to tempt travelers to take to the skies again.
In this regard Aegean Airlines' strategy is likely to draw the ire of environmentalists. The Greek airline has just unveiled the concept of a fixed-price pass, introducing the idea of a fare lock, for visiting Greece and its various island destinations throughout the year as well as an international version between Greece and certain European destinations including Paris, Frankfurt, Barcelona and London. For instance a pass costing 656 euros, entitles the holder to eight flights between Paris and Athens. The holder gets a seat in economy class included in that price, or a half-price reduction for front seats offering more legroom. Holidaymakers may also be tempted by a 30% reduction on baggage charges.
A concept that is clearly light years away from the idea of a lifetime quota on flights -- in particular the number of four flights in a lifetime evoked by French engineering consultant and climate expert Jean-Marc Jancovici.
03/06/2023 AFP/Forbes India
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