US Airways Raises Fare by $580

U.S. Airways has reportedly increased the price of one of its round-trip tickets by $580 beginning in January. The current price for a round trip between the Pittsburgh to Philadelphia costs from $118 plus tax currently, however, once Southwest Airlines drops the route next year, U.S. Airways will increase its price by $580 to $698 plus tax.

 US Airways Raises Fare by $580

U.S. Senator Bob Casey has called the increase “exorbitant.”

A check of the U.S. Airways website this week showed that the $118 fare was available if passengers remained in Pittsburgh for multiple nights. However, from Jan. 8 the prices seem to increase to $698 for the same flight.

“The Philadelphia-to-Pittsburgh route is flown regularly by business travelers,” Casey wrote. “A significant increase in price could potentially hurt Pennsylvania businesses that rely on this route.”

U.S. Airways spokesman Todd Lehmacher said: “We appreciate Sen. Casey taking the time to contact Mr. Parker and we will respond directly to the senator regarding his concerns.”

Lehmacher has also said that “pricing decisions are made based on demand and what the market will bear. Fares change all the time.”