US airlines: packing passengers in record numbers
Airline passengers who feel sardine-packed have good reason: US airlines are flying at their fullest levels since the 1940s.
Why?
“Thanks to a combination of high demand and airline cutbacks in the number of flights as they try to save money,” wrote the Associated Press.
Airlines ranging from low-cost to traditional carriers are reporting load factors in ranging from 70+% to mid 80s.
Last year, US airlines reported a domestic load factors of 77%, which was the highest since 1946, according to the Air Transport Association.
Despite higher occupancy rates, however, rising fuel prices are preventing the airlines from being profitable.
While United Airlines reported on Tuesday revenues increase of 14 per cent in the three months to March 31 $171m from $250m, its loss widening to $306m from $302m.
Report by David Wilkening
David
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