Breaking Down the Costs of Flying from Connecticut to Florida: Ticket Prices and Extra Fees
Planning a trip from Connecticut to Florida can feel like navigating a maze of ticket prices and hidden fees. While airlines advertise low base fares, the final cost often depends on what you’re willing to pay for extras like seat selection, baggage, and boarding perks. Here’s a closer look at how major airlines compare on this popular route and what those “junk fees” mean for travelers.
Holiday Travel Highlights
As millions of Americans traveled over Thanksgiving, around 95,000 passengers flew out of Bradley International Airport in Windsor Locks, Connecticut. Budget-friendly deals, like Avelo’s $40 flights, have enticed travelers, but U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal warns against deceptive pricing practices.
Blumenthal, chair of the Senate Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations, recently criticized airlines for “exploiting passengers” through dynamic pricing and ancillary fees. A report from the committee revealed how airlines unbundle services like carry-on baggage and seat selection to maximize profits, leaving travelers to pay more than they anticipated.
Comparing Costs from Hartford to Orlando
For a trip from Hartford to Orlando between January 10 and 13, round-trip ticket prices vary widely depending on the airline and included services:
- Delta and Southwest Airlines: $335 round-trip.
- Delta includes free seat selection, one checked bag, and one carry-on. Upgraded seating options are available for an additional fee.
- Southwest offers two free checked bags, but seats aren’t assigned. Families flying with children may need to pay $35 for early check-in to secure better seating.
- Avelo Airlines: $130 round-trip.
- Avelo’s low fares don’t include a carry-on bag or seat selection. Passengers can bring a personal item for free but must pay $14 to $64 to select a seat or $50 for a carry-on.
- JetBlue and American Airlines: $202 and $203 round-trip, respectively.
- Both include one carry-on bag and free seat selection, making them the most affordable full-service options.
Budget Airlines: A Trade-Off
Budget carriers like Breeze Airways, which operates from both Bradley International and New Haven Tweed Airport, offer fares as low as $29. However, these tickets often come with significant restrictions:
- Only a personal item is included for free.
- Seat selection and additional bags incur extra charges.
For passengers traveling light or willing to sacrifice seating preferences, these airlines can be a good deal. However, families or those needing more amenities may find the added costs outweigh the savings.
The Impact of Ancillary Fees
Airlines like Frontier and Spirit have made headlines for charging high fees for seat selection, a tactic the subcommittee’s report highlighted. Many passengers are willing to pay extra to ensure they sit next to family or friends, driving profits from these charges higher than ever.
Airlines for America, a trade group representing the industry, defended the practice, arguing that modern pricing structures allow more Americans to afford air travel. “Under the one-size-fits-all pricing scheme before deregulation, only the wealthiest could fly,” the group said in a statement.
Tips for Booking Wisely
When comparing ticket prices, it’s essential to account for extras:
- Baggage Costs: Check whether a carry-on or checked bag is included in the fare.
- Seat Selection: If traveling with family or friends, consider the cost of reserving seats together.
- Boarding Options: Fees for early boarding or priority seating can add up, especially for families.
Final Thoughts
For travelers flying from Connecticut to Florida, choosing the right airline depends on priorities. Budget carriers like Avelo and Breeze are excellent for those who can pack light and don’t mind where they sit. Meanwhile, full-service airlines like Delta and JetBlue provide more inclusions, which may be worth the higher base price.
As airlines continue to adjust their pricing strategies, understanding the true cost of a ticket—including those “junk fees”—will help you find the best deal for your next trip.
