British Airways, Virgin Atlantic Trim Fuel Surcharges

Contributing Editor Carl Unger believes that every trip is worth taking. He loves an extended trip to Europe as much as he enjoys exploring the towns and landscape near home. Basically, you'll find him wherever there is good food, fresh air, and plenty of stories to bring home.

Carl has been writing for SmarterTravel since 2005. His travel writing has also appeared on USA Today and the About.com Boston travel guide.

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[[British Airways]] and [[Virgin Atlantic]] will be cutting their fuel surcharges in response to a sharp decline in fuel costs over the past few months. British Airways will cut the charge on flights of nine hours or longer from £96 to £66 ($146 to $100, see XE.com for current exchange rates) in World Traveller Class, and from £115 to £85 in first and Executive Club classes. Virgin’s long-haul economy surcharges were also cut from £96 to £66.

So let me get this straight: Fuel prices have dropped, so major airlines are making corresponding reductions to their [[Fuel Surcharge | fuel surcharges]]? What a refreshing idea! (Of course, given the history of these two airlines, it probably behooves them to be extra careful when assessing their fuel surcharges).

Still, as fuel prices continue heading downward (along with the economy), let’s hope other carriers follow British Airways’ and Virgin’s lead. Between the reduced schedules, high fares, numerous fees, and lower fuel costs, most airlines should be able to turn a healthy profit without inflated surcharges.

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