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Delta and United Scrap Solo Traveler Surcharges, American Remains Outlier

Public scrutiny of targeted price hikes aimed at business fliers prompted Delta and United to reverse solo surcharges, leaving American Airlines as the only major carrier still charging extra to individual bookers.

An airline passenger checks in at the United ticket counters at Tampa International Airport in Tampa, Florida, U.S., July 19, 2024. REUTERS/Octavio Jones
Flying by yourself could cost you more.

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.