United Airlines face off with rival LCCs with ‘Basic Economy’

Here’s good news for budget-conscious travelers. Come 2017, United Airlines is ready with its plans to unveil “Basic Economy”, aimed at offering lower priced tickets instead of regular fares. With this move, United Airlines is looking forward to aggressively compete with leading U.S. discount carriers such as Frontier Airlines, Spirit Airlines and Allegiant Air.

According to the airline, “Basic Economy” will however come with a condition attached to it. The customers seeking to book Basic Economy fares will be required to give up some of the remaining facilities such as getting an assigned seat or storing their carry-on suitcase in the overhead bin.

Oscar Munoz, CEO of United Airlines, said, “The company has been focusing increasingly on providing top-notch amenities to higher-spending business travelers. The company has now also decided to give priority to its price-sensitive customers as well. This realization has prompted the airline to launch ‘Basic Economy’ to make flying even more affordable and also give tough competition to low-cost carriers such as Allegiant Air, Spirit Airlines and Frontier Airlines.”

Travel experts say that cheap air travel always comes with some compromises. And, the ‘Basic Economy’ unveiled by United Airlines is also not an exception. This newly-created fare category simply means that the customers won’t be able to choose seats or change flights, even though for a fee. The fares are non refundable too. They also won’t be allowed to make use of overhead bins storing their carry-on suitcase. The passengers booking this fare would also be the last to board their flights. However, the customers would be permitted to store their personal item that fits well underneath their seats. If however they want to carry somewhat bigger item or luggage then they would have to pay a fee. Despite the lack of facilities, this no-frills, bare-bones airfare is like by some price-sensitive travelers.