Corporate travel changes with the times: some fares are cheaper, some more expensive, but in the long-term demand will outweigh supply, bringing up costs for all.

• Author: Morgan, Barbara

How has the travel industry changed over the years? How will it affect your pocketbook?

What's new today and is expected to change into the future?

"Companies have been more concerned with costs since 9/11," says Bridgitte Watts, office manager for Azumano Travel that locally owns and operates American Express, the largest travel company in the world. "Companies used to go more for luxury and full-fare tickets. Now they use super-savers."

Travel agents have the ability now to use the online Alaska Airlines' Web site and their own computer system as well as different vendors.

Business fares used to be three to four times the amount of a supersaver. Because of business companies' concerns over cost, the airlines have changed their fare structure and come down on prices. They now also offer special first class fares they didn't have before and changeable fares.

A quick trip to Fairbanks used to cost $500, but corporate travel is no longer at a premium. Corporate travelers often pay the same or less as other travelers.

Alaska Airlines now bases prices on one-way fares, which gives a discount to the traveler on the return, allowing a seven-day advance purchase price. A roundtrip fare would have been much higher.

Some tickets do not require a Saturday night stay. The 21-day advance purchase has changed to a 14-day advance, seven-day advance, three-day advance and one-day advance structure.

Tickets need to be flexible for a business traveler who may change an agenda.

The disparity in prices between last-minute purchases for business travelers has dropped because of the demand by corporate travelers for a better pricing system.

Corporate travelers can now check in online and print their own boarding passes or use a kiosk. This is especially convenient for travelers on early morning flights or for out-of-state flights. Travelers can go directly to security. Only travelers who have luggage still have to go through a check-in line.

"Checking in on the Internet at home has certainly made the airlines more efficient," says Jennifer Deitz, president & founder of Career Academy.

For managed travel, agencies can better handle a company's travel budget and provide group discounts by negotiating with vendors for better rates.

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