United Airlines Extends Business-Fare Deals

UAL Corp.’s United Airlines has extended the deadline on two business-fare discounts well into 2002, citing positive results as it seeks to revive slumping sales among the highest-paying passengers.

The move was immediately matched by Continental Airlines and was likely to pressure other carriers to follow.

United said it was pushing back the travel deadline to March 31 from Dec. 31 on two lower-fare options. One offers 50% off the current unrestricted business fare with a 21-day advance purchase and a one-or two-night minimum stay; the other gives 25% off with a 10-day advance purchase.

Neither requires a Saturday-night stay, a stipulation carriers have eased in an effort to win back business travelers.

UAL closed up 48 cents at $16.87 on the New York Stock Exchange.