United States

American Adds ‘Basic Economy' Fares on More Flights

American Airlines is expanding so-called basic economy fares to more flights as it fights budget carriers like Spirit for travelers who just want a cheap seat.

The no-frills tickets often cost about $40 less per round trip than a regular economy seat, but sometimes the difference is under $10.

Passengers who book basic economy on American can't pick their seat ahead of time, they board last, and they can't stow a bag in the overhead bin.

American said Tuesday that it expanded basic-economy fares to many flights throughout the 48 contiguous states.

The move had been expected. A spokesman said American tested basic economy on dozens of routes in the U.S., Mexico, Canada and the Caribbean.

Delta and United already sell basic economy on many domestic flights.

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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