Continental Cutting Fares 15%

Continental Airlines, the nation’s third-largest air carrier, today announced fare cuts averaging 15% to 20% that will take effect on Wednesday in an attempt to fill empty seats.

Bruce Hicks, a spokesman for Continental, said Continental’s MaxSaver fares can be bought two days in advance instead of seven days as was the case previously. He said the reductions will average 15% to 20% nationwide with some of the new fares expiring in May. As examples of the MaxSaver fares, Hick said a Newark to Los Angeles ticket will sell for $119 instead of the present $139. Hicks said travelers can also travel first class by purchasing a no-restrictions coach ticket, “thus virtually eliminating first class.”