Hawaii-based Airlines - Lower inter-island fares not available through mainland travel agent?

When did AQ and HA start only offering lower fares on the internet?

My travel agent was always able to reserve the lower fares, but this time the fare was almost $300.00. I was able to get an internet fare for $147 with a $25 cancellation penalty.

I am flying HNL-KOA on Aug 27 returning Aug 28.

Since you haven't received any responses, may I suggest as a generic strategy that you send your travel agent a copy of the pricing you can achieve on your own through the Internet. Your travel agent should be able to match that price, plus a possible service fee depending on your relationship with them.

When did AQ and HA start only offering lower fares on the internet?

My travel agent was always able to reserve the lower fares, but this time the fare was almost $300.00. I was able to get an internet fare for $147 with a $25 cancellation penalty.

I am flying HNL-KOA on Aug 27 returning Aug 28.

This started serveral months ago, after fares increased dramatically.

Basically both AQ & HA try to cut travel agents (and thier commissions) out of the loop.

You did just what they wanted you to do, namely book directly.

Lihu'e 1k

This seems to be the tread in the travel industry--hotels and airlines want to book as many of their own customers as possible. Helps the company keep track of their customers and lessens the middle man concept. Lowest fare guaranteed is the new concept and AQ and HA have caught on.

This seems to be the tread in the travel industry--hotels and airlines want to book as many of their own customers as possible. Helps the company keep track of their customers and lessens the middle man concept. Lowest fare guaranteed is the new concept and AQ and HA have caught on.

Anybody else notice the "lowest fare guaranteed" seems to mean "no really good fares no matter where you look online."?

Anybody else notice that such hotel guaranties typically exclude the hotel direclty. Not so subtle hint - if you want the best rate, don't check the web, pick up the phone.

Sigh - and here I thought the web was going to make life easier.

Just the cynic in me, as usual.

Lihu'e 1k

ah yes, the complexity of the travel biz ratchets up regularly. airlines, hotels and cars. keeping us all on our toes. but i keep finding as many exceptions as there are new rules. calling, asking politely, checking obvious and not obvious sources. using frequent traveller numbers and then not using them. yikes.