Delta Air Lines Inc. Industry experts said the price cutbacks were expected with U.S. companies dampening business travel as they feel the pinch from the slower economy.
Business travel accounts for as much as two thirds of airline industry revenues.
Mitchell said many companies are turning to Webcasts and video conferencing as a replacement for traveling. Despite the change, the price cuts should help the airlines attract more business-related travelers, he said. People who are used to traveling up front, still have the benefit and option of flying up front. Northwest's move came after it introduced two types of BizFlex discounted coach fares last year, which can be purchased 10 or 14 days in advance and require a minimum one-night stay. United Airlines, the second-largest U.S. airline, and Continental Airlines Inc.