Australian 'Best Discount' domestic fares reach lowest level in at least two decades

Australia's Bureau of Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Economics (BITRE) reported (13-Jan-2010) in its Domestic Air Fare Index that the 'Best Discount Fare' Index (Jul-03 =100) for domestic travel fell to the lowest level in at least two decades in Jan-2010, at 53.9, compared to 57.2 in Jan-2009 and 83.5 in Dec-2009. 'Restricted Economy' fares in Jan-2010 were also lower year-on-year, at 95.9 (compared to 97.2 in Jan-2009), although 'Full Economy' fares were up, 91.0 (compared to 86.3 in Jan-2009). 'Business' fares remained down on a year-on-year basis, at 95.9 compared to 104.1 in Jan-2009. Business, Full Economy and Restricted Economy Fare levels have remained around the same levels over the past six months, while Best Discount Fares have varied slightly. [more]