2024-07-27 07:04:18
With global air travel prices rising due to rising fuel prices and operating costs, affordability and value for money are becoming a priority for passengers. According to the International Air Transport Association (IATA), the price of jet fuel has increased by almost 150% over the past year. This increase inevitably leads to higher airfares as airlines seek to offset the increased fuel costs.
However, as a recent Bloomberg analysis shows, the upward trend in airfares is not the only trend in the market. As air travel recovers from the pandemic and the number of flights increases, airlines have begun to lower ticket prices. This trend is driven by increased competition and a desire to attract more passengers. In the first half of 2024, international fares fell by 6% compared to the same period last year.
Low-cost airlines also play a key role in providing more affordable travel options. They achieve lower fares by minimizing additional services and streamlining operational processes.
In this context, let us clarify the question of how and where one can travel from Baku profitably. At Heydar Aliyev International Airport, 36 air carriers serve passengers, of which 17 are low-cost airlines.
Direct flights from low-cost carriers from Baku cover various regions: the Middle East, Europe, Asian countries and regional routes. For example, low-cost carriers such as Fly Dubai and Air Arabia provide flights to Dubai, Sharjah and Abu Dhabi, making travel to these key business and tourist hubs more affordable. Wizz Air and Pegasus offer routes to Europe, including Budapest, Rome and Istanbul, while Indigo and Israir provide direct flights to Delhi and Tel Aviv. FlyArystan and Georgian Wings connect Baku with Astana, Aktau and Tbilisi.
In addition to standard fares, many budget airlines offer promotions and sales, which can help you further reduce your airfare costs. For example, airlines such as Wizz Air and Fly Dubai regularly offer early booking discounts and ticket sales.
When planning an affordable trip, it’s important to consider several key factors. For example, booking early can often result in significant savings, as airlines offer discounts months in advance. Date flexibility can mean better travel options, and airline loyalty programs can sometimes offer perks like free baggage or priority boarding. Additionally, traveling with minimal luggage can help you avoid additional expenses.
However, it should be noted that low-cost airlines usually charge extra fees for luggage, seat selection and meals, which leads to unexpected and additional costs. Low service and limited amenities can sometimes be unsuitable for passengers.
On the other hand, classic airlines offer a higher level of service, including free meals, baggage and seat selection. In addition, they know how to please their passengers by creating profitable opportunities, for example, frequent travelers are offered such opportunities as bonus programs, discount campaigns and various promotions. Even the national air carrier of Azerbaijan AZAL, which is a classic airline, adapts to modern market conditions by holding various promotions, offering its passengers discounts for early booking, making its fares more affordable and attractive without compromising the quality of service.
Thus, when planning a trip, it is important to consider not only the initial cost of the air ticket, but also possible additional expenses and the level of service. When choosing between a low-cost airline and a classic airline, you should consider personal preferences, budget and requirements for comfort, and most importantly, safety.
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