Demise of Independence Air not affecting fares

In news that should please low-cost airline users, it seems that the closure of cheap-flight operator Independence Air has not directly led to other airlines raising their prices.

Independence Air disappeared from our skies on January 5, and it was feared that with less competition, travelers would see other airlines increase their fares.

However, according to a regional consumer group, this has not been the case.

"I haven't seen anything drastic,'' explained Danni Varlan of East Tennesseans for Airfare Competition to The Maryville Daily Times. "Most of our fares seem to be relatively stable. We've seen a little bit of change but not a lot.''

Part of the credit for the stability in Tennessee must go to officials at McGhee Tyson Airport. They contacted the region's remaining airlines, thanking them for their services and encouraging them to keep their prices competitive following Independence's closure.

While Independence's closure has not had a negative affect on fare prices, it seems that increasing fuel costs are hitting consumers after a number of airlines this week raised their prices by $5 each way.

Independence Airways had been operating for 19 months and flew between Washington Dulles International Airport and 36 cities.

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Comments

[Elaina Knight]

Hi,
I miss you Independence Air, and I thank you for the opportunity you give me, by making me apart off the FLYI staff. If I wanted to gamble you were there, and if I lost my money you were there (overtime). If I wanted to site-see, you were there. Thanks for the memories!

[Kenn]

I absolutely disagree. Fares from the West Coast (San Jose) to smaller East Coast cities that were once served by Independence Airlines have jumped significantly. Fares found prior in the $300-$400/rt range are now $600+ by other major carriers. Since I fly back and forth at least once a month, I've had to fly out of SFO in order to get better fares.

[angela]

My husband and I flew Indepedence Air last year when we were on holiday from the UK and took 4 separate flights. Your staff were great - very friendly and professional and all flights were on time. We are back over to the US this November and I've just googled Independence to book more flights and am sad to see that you are no longer operating. Good Luck to all of you.