Europe String

As if it wasn’t already all over the news, and a simple Internet check couldn’t confirm it; it’s official – airfare prices have gone up. American Express Business Travel has released new data revealing that airfare prices did indeed rise in the second quarter of 2008. The group tracked average fare paid for one-way travel in a variety of fare types including first class and economy, unrestricted and discount fares across hundreds of domestic and international routes.

Their survey found international airfare reached its highest price in nearly a decade. They reported an 11 percent increase from fare prices from the same time period in 2007. Data also showed that the most popular type of tickets are not business class, but other service classes (economy!)

American Expresses’ best advice is to book in advance. Don’t forget to shop around, sign-up for airline e-newsletters and if you have a difficult itinerary, consult with a travel agent.

And in other airline news; have you heard about United’s new plan to cut free inflight meal service to coach passengers on its transatlantic routes? Seems come October 1 if you are flying from Washington DC Dulles to Europe; no free meal for you. United will be happy to sell you a sandwich or salad though for 9 USD.

Photo Credit: Marc Lacoste@Flickr