Prices jump in hourly decks. You may have to hunt. Surveys by the Transportation Department and the General Accounting Office have concluded that Charlotte fares are among the country's highest. One reason is that small, low-fare carriers are reluctant to challenge major airlines where they are strongest. Passengers must leave Saturday and return the following Sunday, Monday or Tuesday.
Destinations change weekly.
The Observer lists E-savers every Thursday in the Business section. Travelers also might look up the road 100 miles or so, at Greensboro's Piedmont Triad International. Six major carriers serve Piedmont Triad, along with five affiliated commuter carriers and two low-fare carriers. That competition often drives down fares.