Great deals from Philadelphia to select European cities

Looking for an alternative East Coast European launchpad? Like a good deal to go along with it? Consider US Airways' Philadelphia (PHL) hub, and discount airfares as low as $298.

Once a sore point in its route system, US Airways has made marked improvements in its Philadelphia operation since the merger with America West. To underscore the fact, it is launching flights to a trio of new European cities from PHL: Brussels (BRU) on June 1, Zurich (ZRH) on June 8, and Athens (ATH) on May 25. The Athens run is seasonal.

The one-way discount airfare to Brussels is $366, to Zurich, the price is $399, and to Athens the rate is $298. Again, all these discount airfares are one-way, and they entail a round-trip purchase.

Neither taxes nor fees are included. Brussels and Zurich require a seven-day advance purchase, and a Saturday-night stay. Athens comes with a 24-day advance purchase, and a Saturday-night stay.

These are off-peak discount airfares, valid Mondays through Thursdays. Travel Philadelphia to Zurich August 26 through October 28, or December 17 through January 3. The return Zurich to Philadelphia trip has to take place June 8 through 14, August 20 through October 26, or December 13 through January 2.

Here's the travel window to and from Athens: Philadelphia to Athens from September 10 through October 26; Athens to Philadelphia from May 26 to June 30, or October 1 through 20.

Finally, Philadelphia to Brussels passage is good September 2 through October 27, or December 27 through 25; Brussels to Philadelphia will work at the $366 discount airfare June 2 through 24, or August 19 through 27.

© Cheapflights Ltd Jerry Chandler