AZE.US
Air passengers in Azerbaijan are reporting a sharp rise in ticket prices as the summer travel season drives up demand, with some travelers choosing longer connecting routes to avoid the high cost of direct flights.
Complaints have focused particularly on flights to Turkey. In some cases, passengers say it is cheaper to travel from Baku to Tbilisi and then fly to Ankara than to purchase a direct Baku-Ankara ticket.
The alternative requires additional travel time and planning, but the total cost can still be lower than flying directly from Azerbaijan.
High airfares affect more than tourists. Azerbaijanis frequently travel abroad for medical treatment, family emergencies and business matters. These passengers may not have the option of postponing their trips or booking months in advance.
Travelers also argue that flights departing from Azerbaijan can be considerably more expensive than comparable routes from neighboring countries, while the level of service does not always justify the difference.
Aviation specialists say summer price increases are not unique to Azerbaijan. Airlines around the world use dynamic pricing systems under which fares change according to demand, booking date, flight capacity and the number of available seats.
Azerbaijan Airlines, or AZAL, said in response to questions that its fares are calculated in accordance with international aviation standards.
The carrier said it follows pricing approaches and principles used by leading international airlines.
However, AZAL did not specifically explain why a journey from Baku can sometimes cost more than a longer itinerary involving ground travel and a connecting flight through Tbilisi.
AZE.US