[Travelandtourism] New fee from Continental: lock and hold fare for 72 hrs: $5; 7 day hold is $9. Worth it? #fb http://goo.gl/lBo2d

[Peachtree Travel]

Hello list:

Here's a new airline fee that could make it for 2011.  Tell us what you think if more airlines go with it.

Continental Airlines today introduced FareLock, an option that offers customers the opportunity to hold reservations and lock-in ticket prices for 72 hours or seven days with no commitment to purchase a ticket. The new feature, offered for a fee on certain domestic and international itineraries, gives customers additional flexibility to plan their travels and avoid the risk of price increases or sold-out flights. 


Customers may choose FareLock when booking reservations at continental.com and opt for a 72-hour or a seven-day hold. They may return to complete the transaction at any time between purchasing the lock and its expiration, or they may choose an auto-ticketing feature which tickets at the end of the lock period. FareLock fees, beginning at $5 for a 72-hour hold and $9 for a seven-day hold, will vary based on a number of factors such as the itinerary, number of days to departure and the length of the hold. 

"FareLock is an innovative option for customers who need extra time to plan their travel before purchasing a ticket," said Chris Amenechi, managing director of merchandising. "This new option is another way that Continental is giving our customers more choices and more control over their travel experience." 

The carrier will continue to offer its 24-hour flexible booking policy that allows reservation changes and cancellations with full refund without a fee within 24 hours of booking. For customers choosing FareLock, the 24-hour flexible booking policy remains in effect upon ticketing, although the FareLock fee is non-refundable. 

New fee from Continental: lock and hold fare for 72 hrs: $5; 7 day hold is $9. Worth it? #fb http://goo.gl/lBo2d
Maurice 

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