The fare sale comes at a dark period for the airlines.

A dishonest operator can fax notice of a fictitious three-day fare sale to travel agents, with tickets to be delivered later.

American announced a fare sale yesterday and said it would begin advertising on television for the first time since the attacks.

Among airline Web sites, Southwest.com is among the most user friendly for those looking to capitalize on a fare sale.

In the past, depending on her destination, that meant hoping for a fare sale on United or Delta.

Meanwhile, United Airlines actually announced a fare sale today.

Delta also announced a fare sale yesterday for summer and fall travel to and from Atlanta.

But you can buy discounted tickets for travel months in advance - this last fare sale was for trips right up to Dec. 15.

Tight capacity enabled the carriers to raise fares without fear of setting off a broad fare sale.

Airline Update Southwest Airlines has extended its latest fare sale until Feb. 24.