It’s as if the airline industry has flown directly into the perfect storm. Just as air travel volumes reclaimed their pre 9-11 levels, surging oil prices began threatening airline profitability. In response to oil prices...
It’s as if the airline industry has flown directly into the perfect storm. Just as air travel volumes reclaimed their pre 9-11 levels, surging oil prices began threatening airline profitability. In response to oil prices, some airlines locked in rates while others took their chances with the volatile oil market. On average fuel costs consume 24% of an airline’s operating budget and labor takes another 22%. Pilot unions have a firm grip on labor costs and negotiations with the unions have been futile. Additionally, security costs and stringent FAA regulations put additional strain on airline operating costs without signs of relief. These issues hurt the entire airline industry; even low cost carriers like Jet Blue, Southwest, and Ryanair have been impacted by the storm.
As competition continues to drive down ticket prices, airlines struggle to trim fat. More fat means more fuel and airlines are looking for way to lighten their plans in an effort to reduce fuel costs. Many airlines have turned to baggage to solve their fuel cost problems. Two bag limits and excess baggage fees are becoming the norm for most airlines. In October 2005, Jet Blue tightened their baggage policy by reducing their checked bag quantity and size constraints. Last week Ryanair took it one step further with their controversial decision to charge for all checked baggage.
Airlines have taken away free meals and replaced them with overpriced á al carte snacks. They have automated much of their customer service functions with kiosk type solutions. They have raised ticket prices to cover rising fuel costs. Now, Delta and Northwest say that labor pay cuts are necessary to survive, but the pilot’s unions are holding their ground. It’s hard to imagine what will happen next, but it’s sure to have an impact on travelers’ wallets.
Luggage Forward Lightens Holiday Travel
Long check-in lines, hassles at security checkpoints, and lost luggage anxieties are issues that are amplified by holiday travel congestion and 2006 is expected to but the busiest travel season since 2000. Carrying luggage with you the old fashion way just doesn’t make sense anymore and thanks to the emerging luggage forwarding industry you can upgrade your holiday travel experience.Shipping Luggage Helps Families Travel Wise
Traveling with kids can be a difficult task. Navigating airport terminals with one or more children in tow can be more complicated than directing air traffic on the tarmac. Add three stuffed suitcases, a stroller, and airport security and a family travel experience can be the equivalent of a virtual nightmare.Luggage Shipping Services Provide Total Travel Convenience
The moment you pack your luggage for a trip it becomes an inconvenience. In fact, the word “luggage” comes from the Scandinavian word “lug” which the English Oxford Dictionary defines as “carry or drag with great effort”. That pretty much sums it up - nobody likes lugging their baggage to and from the airport.