Innovative design, materials and fuel efficiency, industry observers caution that the Dreamliner's troubles are not atypical. The Airbus A380 suffered early difficulties that led to its temporary grounding not long after its debut.
With higher fares and fewer passengers willing to pay them, airlines will continue their quest for ancillary revenue. Some will find it with carry-on bag fees, predicts George Hobica. The good news, says Hobica, is that some airlines are expanding storage bins for carry-on luggage.
For 2013, "extreme self-service" will be the norm, as airlines cut their customer service interface to the bone. It's not surprising that travel agents are reporting increases in the number of air tickets they're selling.
Bundled fares (baggage fees, no-change fees, priority boarding) are also on the rise in 2013. And leg room is on the decline. That is, unless you book Premium Economy, an increasingly popular offering. The concept is by no means uniform. (indeed, on international carriers it can be another word for Business Class). But, airlines are betting that their "premium" experience will make up for lost revenues and increased costs elsewhere.
