In an idea that may go over only too well with the airline industry, more consumers say they want a “families-only” section on flights, according to a new poll by travel and fare-comparison website Skyscanner.
Of the more than 2,200 airline customers polled, some 60% were in favor of such a section on airplanes – though only about 6.5% of that percentage identified as having children and being pro-family section. In the same poll, about 20% say they’d prefer child-free flights altogether. And while you’d expect delays to be #1 , a previous poll by the website had customers noting that young children are the single “most annoying” factor on flights.
At a time when the some in the airline industry is charging for extra bags, premium seating (exit and aisle row), headphones and other amenities, such an idea – one they could charge for – would offer financial merits as well as customer-pleasing results.
Because travel demand has fallen sharply since late 2007, the U.S. airline industry had to respond by better managing capacity and launching new fees make up lost revenue. While some airline companies are doing well – U.S. Airways Group (NYSE: LCC) reported Wednesday its second-highest quarterly profit since 2005 – many aren’t faring as well. Overall, shares in the last month are down nearly 3% on the Arca airline index (XAL) at $37.17. Shares of American Airlines’ AMR Corp (NYSE: AMR), were down -23.28% year-to-date against the Dow’s -0.4%, reporting a $10.7 million loss in second quarter profits. Delta (NYSE: DAL), too, has been struggling. The stock has lost 93 cents (8.12 percent) during the past month, down -11.98% year-to-date against the Dow.
Though it would certainly be a tough sell to consumers with children, not to mention a logistical challenge (airlines wouldn’t have any idea how many families may be on a flight prior to check in), stranger fees have happened. In an age when most major U.S. airlines charge up to $35 to book flight over the phone – in effect, paying a fee in order to pay a fee – a “child-free” section to some weary travels may be like extra leg room … something they’d be willing to pay for.
As of this writing, Burke Speaker did not own a position in any of the stocks named here.
5 Small Cap Stocks to Buy Now – Small, innovative companies are watching their earnings explode — and they are the next ten-baggers. Investing pro Louis Navellier reveals his secrets to identifying these small cap innovators, plus five of his favorite small cap stocks — download your FREE profit guide here.
