The gap between leisure and business class fares is widening, according to a new study in the US.
Airlines slashed their lowest discount fares during the second-quarter of 2002 to an average of $93 one-way, 3% lower than the first quarter and 22% lower than the second quarter of 2001.
‘Lowest discount’ is the lowest, most restrictive fare and usually requires advance purchase of seven to 21 days and a Saturday-night stay.
But while leisure fares plunged, business fares remained stable.
The American Express Business Travel Monitor, a benchmarking service offered to American Express corporate clients, carried out the study.
“The business fares are now six times higher than those traditionally targeted at consumers,” said Brian Mogler, vice-president of supplier relations and consulting at American Express Corporate Travel.
In comparison, business fares were about two and a half times higher than leisure fares six years ago.
