Originally Posted by
ShyGuy
In a true capitalistic environment, there shouldn't be limits on price gouging. The value of anything is always dependent on location, time, and circumstance. The price for water today in Montana can be $1. But in southern Florida today because of excessively high demand, the price can be $12.
Same with air fares, even without hurricanes. Those who buy months in advance pay a certain lower amount, because the value of that seat months in advance is low. Now that same seat today is worth a LOT because to someone, this seat today is extremely valuable today and must travel. 6 months ago the fare for this same seat is $100. Today, last minute fare for same-day travel is $600.
You can still get super saver fares same day short notice. For example, AA is charging $68 for LAX-ORD daily right now, it's that price months from now too.
Furthermore, price caps are capitalism, the airlines were charging $600+, till Jetblue came in and offered $99 for all seats. There is nothing more capitalistic than undercutting competition.