I booked a last minute, discounted flight on 'the best US airline' for around $100, and I still can't believe how incredible the deal was

Joey Hadden

September 16, 2019 10:52 PM

Joey Hadden/Business Insider

I arrived at Newark Liberty International Airport at approximately 6:20 a.m. — just a little more than an hour before my flight. As soon as I stepped into the airport, all I had to do was look to the left to see where Alaska's patrons check-in.

Alaska Airlines has been ranked the best airline in the US two years in a row by Money, and it's been named the best traditional airline in North America by JD Power and Associates for 12 years straight.
I recently flew with Alaska Air one-way from New York to Los Angeles for about $100 during a holiday weekend thanks to the airline's Saver Fare , which is essentially a basic economy ticket.
I decided to take a last-minute trip to LA to visit my best friend for his birthday, and Alaska Airlines had the best available price online, which was well within my budget .
Even though I booked my ticket only three weeks before my flight , the price was excellent, and I was shocked to find that I didn't have to compromise on the experience.
I was able to bring a personal item and a carry-on bag for no additional cost, I received my seat assignment when I purchased my ticket, I was later given the option to upgrade my seat to a better class, and my in-flight experience was the same as someone else who'd paid more for a main cabin economy ticket.
I was so impressed with the price, in fact, that I reached out to Scott Keyes, founder and CEO of discounted airfare newsletter Scott's Cheap Flights , to see how I scored such an excellent deal.
Keyes told Business Insider that airlines no longer make the majority of their money from economy fares. Instead, they rely heavily on upgrades, first-class fares, miles, and cargo space to make their money. So don't be too surprised if you find your own discounted fare on an economy seat.
I would hop on another basic economy flight with Alaska in a heartbeat. Here's why.
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Joey Hadden

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