Airlines are bracing for a slowdown in travel as they cut financial forecasts and reduce capacity for summer travel. Delta, Southwest, and American Airlines have all reported lower-than-expected first-quarter earnings, citing reduced consumer confidence and concerns over safety.
The decline in demand is partly due to the lingering memories of recent plane crashes and Boeing’s door-plug blowout. Additionally, bad weather, wildfires, and mass layoffs are contributing to a decrease in travel bookings.
To make up for the lost revenue, airlines will increase fees for services such as checked bags, seat selection, and boarding. Southwest has already started charging for checked bags, except for loyalty members and business class travelers.
Industry experts warn that this trend will lead to more expensive flights and less availability during peak travel seasons. With fewer flights, passengers may face longer delays and cancellations when storms hit.
As airlines tighten their belts, they will focus on extracting maximum value from customers, leading to higher fees. This trend is expected to continue as airlines strive to remain profitable despite the economic uncertainty.
Source: https://edition.cnn.com/2025/03/12/business/flying-gets-worse-nightcap/index.html