A new survey has confirmed the long held belief that price is more important perks for the average American air traveler.
A Reuters/Ipsos opinion poll found ticket price is the prime consideration,well ahead of onboard perks or the brand reputation of an airline.
More than half (52%) would not pay more to travel with a preferred airline and 60% would not spend a cent more to avoid the dreaded middle seat.
"If they’re competing for the infrequent traveler, price is the number one issue. And that is why airlines have decided to match the prices of the lowest fare airlines via these basic economies," RW Mann and Co analyst Robert Mann said.
The findings show the challenges ahead for legacy carriers and in some ways vindicate their decision to introduce no frills fares.
American Airlines, Delta and United have all recently rolled out pared down basic economy fares.
These come without frills such as seat assignment and even no access to the overhead bin.
"We recognize that many of our customers are price sensitive, and that’s a big part of the reason we rolled out our basic economy product earlier this year," American spokesman Matt Miller said.
The online poll also found general mistrust of the airline industry.
More than half of those polled believe airlines put profits ahead of passenger safety
