And the tickets aren't necessarily cheaper, either. Web aficionados can spend hours using their nifty trip builders and fare finders. Over time, as we build our brand, we will win you over. The airlines are faring better. Brand loyalty, for one thing.
Frequent flyers like to stay with one carrier whenever possible.
And to cement loyalty, airlines often dole out 1,000 or so bonus miles for tickets booked online. Travel agents, who just a few years ago seemed doomed to early extinction, are wising up and turning the Internet foe into a friend. Overall, agents' revenues have not yet suffered, but diminishing commissions and the lure of travel Websites are looming threats to the business. Bond Street Travel in New York City, for one, has taken up arms. The agency created its own Website and now offers three tiers of service to its customers.