When Can Flyers Get Away For Cheap in 2017?
Joe Cortez December 28, 2016
Airfare comparison site releases key dates to purchase airfare in the New Year.
Flyers trying to get away for cheap in 2017 now have a list of target dates to begin their shopping for airfare deals. Writing for USA Today, FareCompare.com chief executive Rick Seaney released the airfare comparison website’s predictions for cheap flying in the coming year.
After analyzing available airfare data, Seaney noted four key time periods in 2017 to look for domestic flights. Those trying to get away in winter should search for fares between Jan. 7 and March 5, while avoiding the Valentine’s Day price hikes between Feb. 11 and 24. Those who want to fly in the United States in spring should consider traveling before April 1, as airfare goes up shortly afterward.
Flyers have two options to get away in the summer months, with the first period ending on June 2. Afterwards, Seaney predicts flight prices will increase for the summer. Those who have to wait for summer holidays should book their flights before June 19, as pricing is expected to go up once again starting on June 20.
When it comes to flying to Europe, the prices are not necessarily guided by the time of the year, but by destination instead. As examples of deals potentially available in 2017, London could be available for as low as $650 round trip until summer. Paris airfare could range up to $700, with fares increasing on weekend days, while travelers can get to Rome for less than $900 throughout the week.
“If you want to go to Europe this summer, go ahead and toss out the rule that says wait to shop until five months before departure,” Seaney wrote for USA Today. “Because the deals are available now.”
Seaney’s predictions match industry trends that airfare is dropping for flights both within the United States and around the world. At the beginning of 2016, Hopper.com noted airfare dropped to a three-year low, due to decreasing oil prices.
[Photo: Shutterstock]
