The conflict created when American Airlines required Orbitz to pull its fares of Orbitzs travel website, followed by Expedias decision to show support for Orbitz by pulling American fares off of its website, may make finding cheap airplane tickets and cheap vacation packages more difficult. The ability to quickly and easily compare airfares from multiple airlines on individual sites is threatened if other airlines follow Americans move and additional Internet travel companies delist their fares.
On December 22, the day after Americans move against Orbitz, Expedia responded by shoving Americans flight options to the end of its listings where customers have to view an additional webpage in order to see Americans prices. This past weekend Expedia pulled all American fares off of its website.
Customers of Expedias corporate travel agency Egencia continue to have access to Americans fares at this time.
Expedia ceased offering Americans fares because it sees Americans direct connect distribution strategy as anti-consumer and anti-choice.
Expedia believes that if American Airlines is successful, customers will face higher prices and suffer from reduced transparency of fare options.
American defends its direct connect push noting that travel choices are expanding beyond fares to include optional services like checked baggage, priority boarding, and preferred seating. Our direct connection will help customers by giving them access to customized choices and delivering the best value for their individual travel needs.
www.cheapfares.com