Southwest Airlines

The so-called “Southwest Effect” is causing fares to plummet in South Carolina, news that comes just two days after the carrier announced its routes and prices from two new destinations in the state.
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The Post and Courier of Charleston reports that “within an hour of Southwest Airlines’ revealing details of its service launching from Charleston International Airport next year, local airfares plunged to $59 each way to Southwest-bound destinations — but only after March 13.”
The State of Columbia, S.C., writes that “John Powers, owner of Travel Management Group in Charleston, said all major carriers cut their rates by at least 30%, most slashing by considerably more. Some fell from $228 one way to $59.”
ABC affiliate News 4 of Charleston also picks up on the theme, reporting specifics on some routes where fares have fallen dramatically.
“Comparing one-way ticket prices leaving after March 13, if you fly to Chicago, it was $219 before the announcement and now it’s $99,” the station reports on its website. “Nashville dropped from $228 to $59. It’s not just direct flights that are affected. A flight to New York City was $400 for a one-way ticket. Now it’s $129.”