Here’s a “transformation” no one saw coming.
US Airways, the beleaguered airline undergoing a painful transformation that it hopes will return it to profitability, has decided to end in-flight entertainment on some aircraft.
Word among US Airways employees is that the carrier is not planning to install in-flight entertainment systems on its new Airbus 321 aircraft.
Removal of current in-flight entertainment systems from aircraft serving domestic and Caribbean routes could begin as early as the fall of this year. The company is reportedly “investigating” adding a new system next year, but the decision to remove now and perhaps replace later is driven by the weight of the current system, which could negatively impact fuel consumption.
So here’s what flying on US Airways will cost you:
Sodas, juices, bottled water, coffee, and tea = $2
Alcoholic beverages = $7
No free or buy-on-board snacks on short flights, period
Breakfast = $7
Lunch = $7
Snack Box = $5
First bag fee = $15
Second bag fee = $25
Standby fee = $25
Telephone ticketing fee = $25
Airport ticketing fee = $35
Award ticketing fee by phone = $30-$40 depending on destination
Award ticket processing fee = $25-$50 depending on destination
IN-FLIGHT ENTERTAINMENT = NONE
As fares, fees, and charges rise and capacity is reduced, continuing to offer an in-flight entertainment system that ultimately makes the flying experience more bearable should be a no-brainer in attracting and retaining customers, wouldn’t you think?
While competing carriers are enhancing their brands by installing new and innovative in-flight entertainment systems, US Airways is harming theirs by taking a huge step backward in aviation technology.
The more I learn about this transformation, the more I liken it to a “pay more, get less” model, rather than “pay-for-what-you-use.” I am so afraid of what could be next in line for additional charges or removal in the name of fuel prices.
