申論題

    When customers choose which carrier to fly with, what they (57) is most likely to be the price. In recent years, there has been a boom in the number of low-cost or budget airlines (58) around the globe. By offering their customers comparatively low (59) , these carriers have been gaining a growing share of the airline market, stealing business away from their major (60) . With more people than ever before (61) the skies and with energy prices steadily ascending, budget airlines use all the tricks up their sleeve to stay competitive. (62) , budget airlines make no exception of one-way flights when it comes to reductions in rates whereas the major carriers offer discounts only for round-trip tickets. Moreover, budget airlines encourage ticket purchase well in advance to ensure flights are filled up early by increasing the rates as more tickets are sold. (63) the ticketing policies, the ticket price budget airlines offer includes (64) transportation, with such “frills” as in-flight meals, entertainment, and even blankets and pillows provided for an additional fee. However, in spite of the exploding popularity, budget airlines receive criticisms. They have been accused of (65) , either compromising safety standards or employing inexperienced pilots. (66) , the proponents of budget airlines should remember the adage, “You get what you pay for.”