How much do fares change in price?

[Paging Tom Morrow]

I am looking to book a flight on Delta for the end of August. The flight today is $15 less then it was yesterday. I am curious how much prices change day to day, and how you all make the decision about when to buy?

I appreciate your input!

 

[bavaria]

Why is the sky blue?

It all depends....

Most mainline airlines have advance purchase ie 21 days before flight, 14 days, 7 days, 3 days etc

They also have different 'fare buckets' or 'fare classes'. Once a fare bucket is full, the rate may no longer be offered and the next lowest rate may be offered.

If inventory changes ie a wholesaler releases rooms back to the airline, they may offer a lower rate.

They monitor their competitors and sometimes change rates based on their actions

If an airline joins a market (ie SW in Denver) it may have an impact on fares; same if an airline leaves a market or downsizes

If the route is not popular, the aircraft size flying that route may be downsized, which means fewer seats at a discount

I could go on...........

 

[bavaria]

In regards to 'when to buy' - I suggest monitoring fares on both mainline and discount carriers for a week or so. Play around with dates. Travelocity has a good option where you plug in city pairs and no dates - it will show you teh lowest fares and when they are offered.

Sign up for a farewatcher like on Travelocity and/or SW Ding if you may fly with them.

You will start to develop a feel for the 'right' fare ie a common 'good deal' on your route. When you see it come up, purchase it - it may not be around for long!