Overview

• Thrifty Traveler’s analysis found solo tickets on Delta, United and American were up to $50 or more above the per-seat group rate on select routes.
• Delta and United both rolled back the higher fares within days of the report’s publication, matching single and group ticket prices.
• American Airlines has not yet removed similar surcharges for solo travelers on specific flights, according to ongoing checks.
• Travel experts say the pilots were likely a limited test of dynamic pricing and price discrimination to capture more revenue from business travelers.
• Travelers can use tools like Google Flights, Hopper and Expedia’s price predictions to compare solo versus group fares and avoid potential upcharges.