Factors that Determine Global Air Fare

Aviation industry has witnessed a boom in the past few decades, with more and more tourists opting for air travel all across the globe. Increase in the number of domestic as well as international flights operated by numerous airlines in all parts of the world has led to the upsurge in the overall number of fliers. The demand for cheap air tickets among travelers has also increased considerably. To get the best deals, it is essential to understand the factors, which contribute towards the determination of prices. Although, exact pricing for different carriers operating in different countries may differ, however, the general parameters are somewhat similar globally according to experts. Some of the primary facets involved in the determination of ticket prices are seasonality, distance traveled, selection of airport and flexibility.

Seasonality

Seasonality is among one of the the primary aspects, which play significant roles in deciding the price of air tickets. Prices vary from season to season, the main reason being that the footfall of travelers varies, too. Due to high influx of tourists, the demand is high during festivals and holidays and the prices are usually high. Whereas, during the rest part of the year, the rates are relatively lower. Reports of travel surveys reveal that during peak seasons, such as Christmas, Holi, New Year and summer vacations, the percentage of travelers is considerably higher. This increases the demand and also leads to lesser availability of seats and, thus, to higher charges. Similarly, when the influx is low and availability is high, airlines tend to offer discounted rates.

Distance Traveled and Selection of Airport

Usually, the shorter the distance to be traveled, the lesser is the air fare. It is a general observance of travel experts that the shortest routes are the least expensive. However, they say that this theory might not apply in special cases when the availability is less and demands are high. Besides, experienced fliers suggest that smart selection of boarding as well as departing airports also plays a considerable role in the determination of charges. Major cities, such as New Delhi and Mumbai have one major airport and several other centers that provide base for the operation of air services. Sometimes, selecting minor airports not only cuts down on road travel expenses but also helps in saving some amount on the ticket due to difference in taxes charged.

Flexibility

Reports of a recent survey conducted by a leading tour agency reveal that in general, the more flexible travellers are while booking, the more they save money. The study reveals that tourists who are lenient with aspects like date as well as time of flight, airport, carrier and class of travel have higher chances of saving a considerable amount of money. Opting for Low Cost Carriers (LCCs), travelling in economy class and being open to travelling late night or early morning make it easier to cut down on travel expenses. This is because during odd hours the prices are low. Moreover, the price of the ticket might be higher than it is for the next day. Overall, being flexible helps in slashing down expenses.