We're paying more for flights now? WTF
In a case of ‘no, single people are not making up the fact that it’s more expensive to be single,’ a news story broke just last week that solo flyers on US flights can pay more that people travelling as a pair.
According to an investigation by Thrifty Traveler, a consumer travel website, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines and American Airlines were charging a tax on single travelers that almost doubled in one case.
Since being named and shamed, two of them have rolled it back.
If you’re like me, you’re probably wondering if Canadian airlines were doing the same. In my non-scientific check, neither Air Canada or Porter are doing this when I looked at basic and premium economy ticket costs for single and paired travelers. That’s good. I didn’t look at West Jet so I can’t speak to that.
Two of the airlines rolled back this charge but here's the thing, this is just one more example of how single people are often penalized. It’s done quietly, subtly, and systemically. When you’re single, who’s going to think of checking the cost for two people? You’re traveling solo.
It’s additionally outrageous as solo travelling has increased. You’ve seen the articles whether it’s here or in the media. Industry forecasts, according to Yahoo Finance, predicts nearly 10 per cent annual growth through to 2030 from all groups ranging from Gen Z, Millennials and retirees. We’re not a niche market so for airlines to target us is egregious. (All travel industries that do are but this is about these airlines.)
Whether it's airfare, housing, or group trips, being solo often means paying more for less. It's not just frustrating; it's inequitable and unless we keep calling it out, nothing changes.
So let's keep the pressure on. If you see similar pricing discrepancies whether in travel, accommodations, or everyday services, document them, share them, and speak up. We deserve transparency and fair treatment. Vote with your dollars, euros, etc.
Now we have to check if airline are charging us more when we book our flights. Thanks Delta, United and American for being terrible.
There’s no this week’s readings but I was on Elena Iacono of LegacyNex’s podcast, Echoes of Us. We talked about how legacy is more than just donating a ton of money to an institution. You can listen to it on Apple, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.
I also went to Fashion Art Toronto yesterday with my friend Gail and I want to shout out a few designers I really liked (I am not a fashion critic, I just know what I like): Cannonball Diva, Oama, and Dunne Cliffe for the most amazing sweaters especially the CBC ones. The people-watching was also unbelievable good and this city needs more events for people to dress up as we’re crying for it.