> the vast increase in flying and flying for quick weekend trips. Is this vast increase in absolute terms, or relative to the population? In 1978 the US popul

> the vast increase in flying and flying for quick weekend trips. Is this vast increase in absolute terms, or relative to the population? In 1978 the US population was 222.6 million, it was 331.9 million in 2021. That's a pretty significant increase, but has the number of people flying increased proportionally? > Basic economy is a very popular product. Only about a third of economy flyers choose the no-frills basic economy fare. I'm not sure that makes it "very popular". Airlines that cut basic economy to the level of only allowing a small personal item have reversed that decision and now allow full-size carry-ons. Overall the effect of basic economy is to sell the seat at rock bottom price, then charge for additional services, bringing the total price back up to as much or more than a regular main cabin fare.