Dizzying heights

IATA started pushing for 100-percent e-ticketing with its Simplifying the Business plans four years ago as a reaction to the increasing price of crude oil which hit almost US$40 per barrel. Cost-efficient ways had to be sought and delivered.

The goal was achieved on June 1, 2008 and with this, airlines have started saving US$9 on every e-ticket issued. The paper ticket cost US$10.

It is interesting to note that this no-small victory was celebrated against the backdrop of the surging cost of crude oil, which is expected to hit US$140 per barrel by July 2008.

The spate in increases is so fast that the only way the aviation industry could cope is by eternally adjusting the fuel surcharge. And, as if this isn’t bad enough, it has been said airfares will also increase, and worse, by as much as 50 percent.

While the blood-draining airfare increase is yet to be implemented, some airlines have started imposing charges on checked-in bags.

With the cost of travelling getting truly expensive, will people keep on travelling?

If the cost of travelling forever stays expensive, will people eventually get used to it?

Some believe that after a period of resistance, they will learn to face and live with the new realities.

There are also those who believe that since the increase in fuel prices diminishes purchasing power, then travelling, which is still considered a luxury in most parts of the world, will be the first to go in the shopping list priority.

Even companies have started reviewing their budgets for personnel travel.

If demand for long-haul travels would be impacted, then regional and domestic traffic could improve.

Hopefully, there would still be enough money to go around and keep the industry spinning.

As you flip the pages of this issue, you will have an idea of how everyone is coping.