Been away from the airport? A lot has changed

[unhappycamper]

Been away from the airport? A lot has changed
By JOSHUA FREED
AP Business Writer
Dec 24, 6:38 AM EST

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) -- Haven't flown since last Christmas? Be prepared. Things have changed.

Airlines continued to adjust to the tough economy. There are even fewer planes in service, and that can make rebooking after a cancellation tougher. Higher bag fees and new charges can make flying more expensive. And swine flu worries mean you might get a wary look from the adjacent seat if you cough.

That can make this holiday season's travel experience more trying - and costly - although technology offers some ways to avoid the hassle.

The number of air travelers is expected to fall 2.5 percent to 41 million between Dec. 17 and Jan. 6, according to the Air Transport Association. Airlines have shrunk their schedules because of less passenger traffic.

"People are looking at $600, $700 fares for Christmas, and they're just not going, or they're driving," said George Hobica, who runs airfarewatchdog.com.


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