American Airlines to introduce tiered fares

American Airlines has announced that it is to implement a tiered fare system in order to allow travellers to pay only for what they wish to use.

American Airlines has announced that it is to implement a tiered fare system in order to allow travellers to pay only for what they wish to use.

According to the Associated Press, the carrier will introduce the method next year.

Based on a format already used by Air Canada, passengers pay for the basic airfare and then for any extras, from drinks to blankets.

In the case of Air Canada’s cheapest option, passengers pay extra for upgrades such as a food voucher, advance seat selection, flight changes and airport lounge access and can save money by not checking in bags.

American Airlines executive vice-president of marketing Daniel Garton said the “unbundling” will prevent travellers from having to pay for items they never use.

He added that the move is essential if routes and services are to continue amid the economic downturn.

American Airlines is the world’s largest carrier in terms of total passenger miles transported and operates flights to Delhi, among many other destinations.