Hefty fuel prices and new fees will make airline travel harder to swallow for consumers this holiday season, state and region travel experts say.
Dale Oderman, associate professor of aviation technology at Purdue University, said fares have gone up 30 percent to 50 percent since last season. New fees on top of those fares and fewer seats will further burden base ticket prices, he added.
Some airlines now charge for baggage checking, beverages, food and even seat assignments. Gone are the days of cheap luxury airline travel, Oderman said.
"When you flew even just last year or a few years ago, there were a lot of things that came with flying," he said. "No longer is air travel going to be a bit of travel meal and no baggage fees. Everything is going to be in addition to the transportation."
Region travel agents said they already have seen the impact of higher air fare on residents seeking a holiday getaway.
"Airlines are nickel-and-diming their passengers to make up for the fuel cost," said travel agent Melissa Henry, of Crown Point-based Crown Travel Inc. "I find less and less people flying because of the prices going up so much."
Travel agent Eloise Janostak, of Schererville-based Hilbrich Holidays Travel Inc., said travelers have complained there is no wiggle room for vacations because of the price of air fare.
"I see little hope for a holiday sale this year," she said. "If the price is reasonable and you can afford it, book it."
Merrillville Travel and Cruise agent Barb Sheptak said cruises and vacation packages remain affordable holiday options.
And she said flights to some cities are relatively affordable.
Be flexible with the dates you are willing to travel if you need to fly to visit relatives, Sheptak added.
"Usually in years past, we knew when airlines were going to have some sort of discount," she said. "Now, with the cost of fuel, our guess is as good as (travelers')."
Henry suggested double-checking with airlines and travel agents about the extra fees before heading to the airport.
Driving could become the more affordable option, if time permits, Oderman said.
