US Airways Will Begin Charging a Premium For Better Seats
The dreaded middle seat. You've been there, right? No one wants it.
That may now change, as the middle seat could save you $10 round-trip!
US Airways has announced that on May 7th they wil begin charging a premium for window and aisle seats near the front of the aircraft. The Choice Seats program is available during web check-in for as little as $5. Dividend Miles Preferred members have the benefit of reserving a Choice Seat assignment free of charge anytime after booking. Preferred members also have the exclusive benefit of reserving exit row seats.
The price for Choice Seats will vary by destination and length of flight. Choice Seats are available on all US Airways operated flights except the US Airways Shuttle and Colgan operated Saab 340 aircraft.
With the airlines under intense economic pressure, fees have become a very important source of revenues. The concept of "unbundling" allows an airline to charge for extra services that used to be understood as being included in the fare. In many cases, passengers are now charged for food, pillows, blankets, and certain seats.
I have the fee-ling this trend is here to stay.