Continental Airlines has announced discounts of as much as 85 percent for roundtrip "BusinessFirst" class travel from Honolulu to Europe Dec. 15 through Jan. 10, with additional savings for its frequent fliers. Continental cuts
Europe biz faresBy Tim Ryan
tryan@starbulletin.comThe sale fares provide a BusinessFirst seat for a coach fare.
For instance, the usual Honolulu to Paris roundtrip BusinessFirst fare on Continental is reduced from $8,913 to $1,800, but with 20,000 OnePass Miles the fare drops to $883; Honolulu-Frankfurt regular BusinessFirst fare is $10,210; sale $1,800; with 20,000 miles at $932.
First and business class fares for the same route on other carriers range from $8,000 to $10,000, according to an online search. The Internet failed to turn up sale fares on other airlines.
"With business travelers typically taking a break during the holiday period, Continental can offer our BusinessFirst seat inventory at these special prices for vacation travel," said Julie King, Continental spokesperson.
The program applies to travel between the 50 United States and Europe. Fares are on sale through travel agents or from Continental Airlines.
A Saturday night stay and seven day advance purchase is required. Reservations must be ticketed within 72 hours of booking Z class on international segments and F class within the United States. (If F class is not available within the U.S., book Y class.)
Tickets are non-refundable and certain reservation changes may be made for $150. One free stopover is allowed within the United States, either outbound or inbound. No discounts are available for children and waitlisting is not permitted.
Blackout dates are Dec. 21 and 22, and Jan. 5, 2002. Tickets must be purchased no later than Dec. 23.