United, Continental Raise Fares

Two of the nation's biggest airlines boosted round-trip fares by as much as $50 heading into the weekend, raising the stakes in their fight against rapidly rising fuel costs and putting pressure on competitors to follow suit. United Airlines, the second largest U.S. carrier, led the latest round of increases late Thursday, hours after crude oil prices surged to a new record of $111 a barrel. Where is it going to stop? Continental Airlines matched the increases. At least two other carriers said they were studying the move. It was the fourth week in a row that carriers have raised ticket prices, and the second round of increases led by Chicago based United in as many weeks. United spokesman, Robin Uranski said the higher fares are based on he length of flight, meaning that trips of under 500 miles will cost travelers $4 to $10 more round trip. I think it will still be worth the price though. It is the fastest and easiest way to get anywhere.