OpenSkies releases ticket price details
Phil Davies, Travel Mole, 5/22/2008 (excerpted)
Editor's Note: As a followup to the article “ BA's OpenSkies Airline to Take Off in June – Maybe” (May 26 Communiqué), the British Air Line Pilots Association withdrew from legal proceedings on May 23 and agreed not to pursue any future ballots on the same issue. OpenSkies tickets are now available.
British Airways new transatlantic subsidiary has confirmed prices for the start of services on June 19.
The first flight by OpenSkies will be between Paris Orly and New York on a refitted 82-seat Boeing 757.
Prices range from 2,269 euros [approximately $3507 USD] return in ‘Biz' featuring fully lie-flat beds, 1,159 euros [approximately $1,791] in ‘Prem+' with seats giving a 52” pitch and 830 euros [approximately $1,283] for the 30 seats in the economy section.
Rates include fuel, insurance and security surcharges but have limited availability and require seven days advance purchase.OpenSkies claimed its pricing approach is designed to provide "true value for money" compared with what has been traditionally offered by the long-time incumbent carriers on the Paris-New York route.
Managing director Dale Moss claimed the Prem+ cabin "will compete with what our competitors offer as business class but at a much more compelling price point".
Economy fares valid for peak summer travel season. Prem+ fares must be booked by June 16 with travel completed by August 31. 2008. A Saturday night stay is required for Biz and economy fares.