Summer Fare Wars Hit Cruising Level

Three of the nation’s airlines kicked off a fare sale Friday, discounting tickets through the end of the summer season.

Northwest Airlines will offer passengers up to 40 percent off regular excursion fare levels for travel in the continental United States. The Eagan, Minn.-based carrier said discounts are also available for travel to Alaska, Canada, the Caribbean, Mexico and Hawaii.

Tickets must be purchased by July 12 for travel through Sept. 14. The non-refundable fares require a 21-day advance purchase, Northwest said.

Also Friday, America West Airlines announced it would offer passengers up to 20 percent off selected medium- and long-haul flights.