Why are last minute flight so expensive from Hartfort, CT to Buffalo, NY?

Question

I can't find anything cheaper than $400 for a round trip, can anyone explain this? I would think they would just want to get the seats filled!

Answer 1

Showing up for a cheap "standby" seat is largely the stuff of legend. You'll be shocked that the $400 price you see now will probably be closer to $600 if you just show up at the airport. Leisure travellers are usually price-conscious and plan trips far in advance. Last-minute fares are mostly for business folk who have to travel, and have company travel accounts to pay for it. If there's any upside, it's that last-minute fares typically are easier to upgrade to first class (and sometimes ARE first-class) and are usually easy to change or refund, since you end up paying for a much higher fare class.

I just checked this fare for you, and if you could book it 14 days advance, looks like it's $252 (vs. $408 tomorrow or the next day). IF you could go from BOS instead, it looks like only $177 roundtrip, all taxes and fees included, on USAir, no advance purchase necessary. This is a sale fare, and won't last forever. Same with JetBlue from BOS to BUF; 14 day advance purchase only $97 roundtrip. That's a really great fare!

http://www.usair.com

Answer 2

Thats a good question and i have found that to be true for other destinations also. Someone told me if your schedule is flexible u can try standby. I have never done this but i guess u go to airport and make sure all seats are taken hoping there will be 1 that is not and the price is cheaper at the last minute. Good luck.

Answer 3

because if you are waiting till the last minuete it means you need that seat and well if you need that seat you are going to pay most anything so they jack the price up and it is less time for them to print your ticket and get your information organized.

Answer 4

because you're desperate! they know you have to buy it whatever the cost.