U.S. Carriers Slash Fares for Leisure Travel

U.S. airlines are offering discounts averaging 40% on fares for domestic and international leisure travel through Feb. 17. USAirways Group Inc. led the way, with bargain fares available on tickets purchased by Nov. 12 and at least 14 days in advance of travel. A Saturday-night stay also is required. UAL Corp.’s United Airlines, the largest U.S. carrier, AMR Corp.’s American Airlines, Continental Airlines Inc. and Trans World Airlines Inc. all matched the sale. Southwest Airlines Inc. usually initiates separate discounts. Most of the carriers are also offering an additional 5% discount for customers who buy their tickets through the airlines’ Internet sites.