Posts Tagged ‘ticket’

If anyone has conducted a recent search for a plane ticket, you know that things have gotten even more complicated. New search engines like Bing and Hipmunk have cropped up, and now even Google is entering the airline ticket business.

American Airlines recently announced they want to deliver fare information directly to online ticketing sites like Expedia and Orbitz—meaning they will be able to control which sites offer special deals and the lowest fares.

While this may seem sketchy, what this ultimately means is airlines want more control over their customers. I think we, as faithful flyers, should be excited that things are slowly starting to change in the airline industry. Years of struggling to stay in business have forced airlines to finally think like normal businesses, i.e., actually considering what their customer may want. And they want more than just low fares.

If we need to look to an example of doing things correctly, I will stand by my billionaire bud Richard Branson and Virgin America, who created an entire fleet of  airlines based exactly on what I want: sexy mood lighting in the cabins, music entertainment systems pre-loaded with Brittney Spears videos, amusing British pre-flight cartoons, and let’s face it, some of the most attractive flight attendants in the biz.

Will I pay extra to fly Virgin? Absolutely. Do I care that they are under investigation because foreign corporations cannot own a majority share in an American airline? (Provisions set in place during the world wars—can’t allow those limey Brits access to our planes.) Or that their bottom line might not be as rosey as their Red in-seat multi-media experience? As long as they don’t cut corners on safety, not particularly.

Some other airlines are just catching on that customers might actually pay attention to things like this, and not just opt for the cheapest fare. Consumers are much smarter now. As Dave Matthews says, “You pay for what you get.” And everyone agrees with Dave.

According to George Hobica of Airfarewatchdog.com, “Airlines don’t want people to comparison-shop… they want to build loyalty with the brand.”

Maybe it’s the fact that Valentine’s Day is this weekend, but I think this is the start of a beautiful relationship. When a company begins to focus on brand loyalty, it means they are going to be spending time making certain their customers are happy. And it makes sense. If an airline can count on my business every time I fly just by having a cool button on my screen I can push and order free coffee, then it’s certainly worth their time. (I am a total sucker for special treatment.)

So what can we really expect for 2011? Are airlines going to be tweeting out special fare offers? Are flight attendants going to offer neck massages? Are ticket agents actually going to be NICE to you?

I think changes are definitely underway… it just may not be overnight. Let’s not forget, we’re still at the mercy of the airlines. When is the last time you considered taking the train to visit your mom in Florida? Is Greyhound bus really an option for taking the family to the Grand Canyon?

No, we need them. But, they also need us. I think we’re headed in the right direction, finally. I, for one, am excited by the prospect of an industry shift to customer satisfaction.

 

Related Branson Shows Articles

3 Redneck Tenors to sing here Thursday
3 Redneck Tenors will be presented here at 7 p.m. Thursday at the Gilmer Civic Center. Tickets will be $ 15 for adults, including seniors, and $ 5 for students. The show will be part of the Upshur County Arts Council’s 2010-2011 season for season ticket holders.
Read more on The Gilmer Mirror

Question by IEatRainbowsAndPoopButterflies: I am 17, Can I buy my own plane ticket?
I have a good friend that lives in Branson Missouri. I just recently turned 17 and his family is asking me to visit. I have the money but my only problem is my parents. My mom doesn’t want me going because my best friend is a guy. I honestly think I’m responsible enough to make the right decisions and this is what I want. It’s been over three years since I last visited them, and I really feel it is about time I see them once more. So I wanted to know if you can buy a plane ticket in the state of California at the age of 17. In Missouri 17 is legal adult, so I don’t know if me going there applies to my purchase. Can I buy my own plane ticket?

Best answer:

Answer by Steezy
I believe that you only have to be 13 (in my state you do I don’t know if it varies). So in other words you should be just fine.

What do you think? Answer below!

3 Redneck Tenors to sing here Thursday
3 Redneck Tenors will be presented here at 7 p.m. Thursday at the Gilmer Civic Center. Tickets will be $ 15 for adults, including seniors, and $ 5 for students. The show will be part of the Upshur County Arts Council’s 2010-2011 season for season ticket holders.
Read more on The Gilmer Mirror

Adventurer and Walpole resident Richard Laronde shares his story with Walpole veterans
    It’s not very often a 59-year-old man is able to talk about accomplishing childhood dreams to a room full of heroes who were able to sustain the American dream that’s allowed children to dream big for 235 years.
Read more on The Walpole Times

Five films have a shot at No. 1 at the box office
New releases ‘The Lincoln Lawyer,’ ‘Limitless’ and ‘Paul’ are expected to be in a tight race with the last two winners, ‘Battle: Los Angeles’ and ‘Rango.’ Matthew McConaughey, Bradley Cooper or … an alien?
Read more on Los Angeles Times

Richard Branson Ticket to Space. Virgin Galactic Space Tourist
Video Rating: 5 / 5

Richard Branson Ticket to Space. Virgin Galactic Space Tourist
Video Rating: 5 / 5

Question by Bean: What do you think of the £43 air ticket London to Kuala Lumpur?
I’ve been following the MAS/Virgin Airline story since it was announced a few days ago and Virgin boss (Billionaire Richard Branson) said the price to KL would only be £43.

It’s interesting to note that one of his trains from Manchester to London costs £88 !

Do you think that it’s just a cheap gimmick? (No pun intended)

Best answer:

Answer by George L
Classic loss leader.

This is the dream hub for Virgin (opens access to Australia) and they will lose money to get it moving. The press they generate fron the £43 tag is also not coincidental.

Reminds me of Microsoft’s new Zune Mp3 player. So behind are they in the market they are rumored to be losing $ 25 per unit. Thats going to hurt.

Id have no issues with Virgin at this price. Just remember your £40 taxes and to pack a sandwich!

Give your answer to this question below!

Richard Branson Ticket to Space. Virgin Galactic Space Tourist

The NASA service contract – ticket to the moon

Price: [wpramaprice asin="B0006XSA6M"]

[wpramareviews asin="B0006XSA6M"]

Find More Branson Ticket Products

Question by kelb17: Hannah Montana is suppoesed to appear in branson but i have no idea when or how much the ticket cost.?
HANNAH MONTANA

Best answer:

Answer by KayKay
get on to the link below and search for your area and if she’s supposed to be appearing there it will be there!! hope i helped!!! :):):):):):):):):):):):):))

Know better? Leave your own answer in the comments!