Passengers abandon Asian flights

[Flashback]

Passengers abandon Asian flights | The Australian

ASIA-Pacific airlines have been hit by a sharp fall in passengers and cargo traffic as the global economic crisis bites.
The Association of Asia Pacific Airlines (AAPA) said on Tuesday passenger numbers slipped 4.1 per cent in October, while air cargo demand slumped 11 per cent.

 

[ethernet]

Because of 'Sticker Shock' methinks. Pay extra for luggage - more shocks. Jacked up Christmas flights sky high, so all my mates on cruise boats this year instead. Those not cruising, are planning to stay home, for some anticipated Christmas sales - and beat the credit card.

I just saw Asian tickets being dumped- free flights, and at 1/2 what people paid 2 months ago. My loyalty to advance booking is now about zero, which is going to make it hard to plan loads.

 

[JohnK]

If the airlines stopped playing games and reduced fuel surcharges and airfares then they will get a lot more of my business. And also I know many people who would head off to Asia regularly without too much thought if the airfares were cheaper.

 

[ethernet]

No surprise really

November is not out - so assume bad news here too.
A 30% depreciation against Asian Currencies, plus significant hikes in backpacker class accom is sure to keep numbers away.

Taking time off work, can be risky - so for some, protecting job insecurity is more important.

Negative press articles about stiffing pax by a few minutes/late boarding has scared people away too.

Optimistic pricing months ago, means many 'web surfers' saw and imprinted high 'discount' numbers and have just given up looking - but JQ still seems to have more suckers. I saw japan on sale for $400 return, NZ cheapish, and Asia more expensive, even though it was nearer.

I think the malaise is wider. I'd love to know if the planes are (now) flying out significantly more empty. Jetstar for next week- $800 ow to Singapore/Asia with stops - $1600 return is hardly budget. Tiger $485 + Perth add ons. Seems to me packages with accom with traditional carriers seem an attractive option bait/stitch when Jenny Average hits the travel agent.

For multiple reasons, I'd say the discount airlines have scared their market away, and I don't even think advertising can fix it

 

[dajop]

Flew to MEL-SIN-MEL and back last week on SQ (in C), and had to waitlist to get on one of the flights I wanted, and by departure both flights were full in C & Y cabins, (F wide open) - at least according to seat counter. Next week C cabin more open - but Y all full on day I'm travelling Although this time of year Asian student impact on loads is significant. Probably would hit JQ harder I assume.

 

[Flying Fox]

I'd expect this situation to get worse given the recent events in India and Thailand.

 

[albatross710]

I'd expect this situation to get worse given the recent events in India and Thailand.

Great time to grab a holiday bargain in coughet and help out the locals.

I've had a scan at sites like lastminute to see if there are special deals but nothing stands out.

There was an article in today's Courier-Mail interviewing returning travellers from BKK. One said that they hadn't even noticed and only after they were called from Australia by their concerned parents did they become aware. Would still be a good place to holiday in the right areas.

I do think that anyone using BKK in the part fortnight would have been aware though. Effective strategy on the part of the protesters...getting the attention of the world.