Oil prices continue to rise through the stratosphere, so we should all be prepared to see the legacy airlines initiate a new round of flight cutbacks (capacity cutbacks) and, see slower growth in the lower cost carriers. The airlines don’t have much choice. This past week, several airlines came out with February numbers, and revenue was “up”. Of course, you might expect that after 4 “sticky” increases this year and 17 “sticky” increases last year (price increases that have lasted, or “stuck”). Somewhat surprisingly, air travel demand was still firm. However, there’s a lot of “gloom and doom” out there. I just don’t happen to buy into all of it (yes, you can still find deals — keep reading).

I do continue to be surprised by the firmness in air travel demand as noted by the airlines — even as signs of economic turmoil are swirling throughout the media.

Case in point: this morning, while I was brushing my teeth, the Today show was on in the background (my wife’s morning staple, ever since the days of Jane Pauley). On the show, Suze Orman was ranting away, telling viewers to “quit spending” and “save your government check, don’t spend it” and I thought, that’s just perfect, let’s all panic.

Then, as I drove to the office, I was flipping through the radio dial, looking for some music when I landed on a local Dallas station; the morning crew there was chatting about how “people are not going anywhere for spring break, they’re staying home and not traveling”. Really?

I know this is just anecdotal information, but one more mention of “quit spending” or “quit flying” and it’ll be a trifecta for my Thursday, which is notable in my book!

Here’s where I stand: I am of the opinion that “recessions” are self-fulfilling, and the more you talk about them, the more likely they are to happen and, the slower the recovery.

Everyone, please understand: there are air travel deals out there! It is not all doom and gloom; just be flexible and educated and you will get a good deal.

And, flexibility and education always make the air travel experience less traumatic. Another case in point: yesterday, my flight from Newark to Dallas was canceled, but I was quick to notice that and found an earlier flight that was itself delayed. I immediately put my name on the “standby list” and got on the flight. It’s all part of being on-your-toes in the maze that is today’s air travel experience.