What are the types of airfare tariffs
After hearing the phrase “airfare tariffs,” usually only economy and business come to mind. Are there any others? In reality, there are, and everything is much more interesting than it seems at first glance. So, let's figure out what tariffs are and what pleasant bonuses they can offer.
In simple terms, tariffs are fees for services provided during a flight. They are regulated by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and depend on the route, its duration, and your ticket class. There are three types of tariffs:
1. Published IATA tariffs. In short, these are basic tariffs that are available in all sources without exception – hence the name “published.” They apply to absolutely everyone.
You've probably seen (even if you haven't, you'll definitely notice now) the IATA code on Aeroflot tickets – it's the letters SU. To get such a code, an airline must be accredited by the International Association.
2. Published airline tariffs. A more individual type, also regulated by IATA. Essentially, it represents a tariff for a specific airline and route.
For example, you can fly to Saint Petersburg for 2,990 ₽ with 'Pobeda' and take a similar flight for 4,047 ₽ with 'Ural Airlines'.
3. Confidential airline tariffs. These are the ones hidden behind a veil of secrecy from others. Each airline tries to keep them secret from others and rubs its hands, saying: “My precious…”
Okay, we exaggerated a bit: everything is a little simpler! You can only familiarize yourself with such tariffs when purchasing tickets directly from the airline or its agents. All information about them is not available in public sources – which is why they are called confidential.
These categories, in turn, are divided into more understandable ones — by terms of application:
1. Normal. They impose no restrictions on the flight and are refundable. As a rule, these are tariffs for:
– first class (F);
– business class (C);
– economy class (Y).
In addition, the ticket can be freely exchanged or refunded, and changes can be made without penalties. Only a service fee is charged.
2. Excursion (EE). Allow passengers to spend as much time in another country as needed to visit all excursion sites (and even more).
3. Special. Business and economy class tariffs. They have the most restrictions but are known for their low price and variety:
– Youth. Under this tariff, passengers up to 23 years old (in some Russian airlines, the age varies up to 25) can purchase tickets on Kupi.com more favorably. For example, with a 10% discount;
– Spousal. Applies to flights to a limited number of countries. One spouse can buy a ticket on Kupi.com with a 50% discount;
– Family. Also not applicable on all routes. A 50% discount is provided for an accompanying spouse and a child aged 2 to 23 (in some cases 25);
– Pensioner. Not available with all airlines. However, it applies to passengers aged 55–60, and the discount is about 15%;
– Child. Allows children aged 2 to 12 to travel with a 30–50% discount. They are provided with a separate seat on the plane, as well as a baggage allowance. In general, everything is like for adults.
– Group. Primarily intended for tourist groups. Restrictions in this case are imposed not only on the duration of stay but also on the number of people in the group (from 4 to 20 depending on the destination).
– PEX and APEX. Determines the exact departure date. The price for such tariffs is attractive, but there's a small catch. PEX or APEX often impose many restrictions: changing the date is impossible, and they can only be purchased on specific days. This category also includes SUPER PEX and SUPER APEX.
In some cases, tariffs can significantly affect the final ticket price. This happens due to airline fuel surcharges. However, pleasant purchase bonuses are pleasant purchase bonuses. By the way, among the advantages: tariff programs allow you to buy tickets with miles.
We hope that the topic of airline tariffs and service fees no longer confuses you. And we wish you pleasant flights and vivid travels!
