I Need Airfare Reassurance

Go for the savings.

Also, keep in mind that most US airlines will refund the difference if the price falls further - normally this is done in the form of a voucher for future travel. Some airlines don't charge you for this (eg. UA) while others will charge a change fee and then refund the remaining difference. Something to keep in mind in case airfares fall further. Not sure what exactly is US' policy - if similar to UA, maybe another reason to book with them.

Sue, as you say, it's hard to predict airfares; who knows what the price of jetfuel will be in 4 months?? However, I will say that we much prefer BA to any of the other airlines we have flown to Europe, so if the fares are close and the flight schedules are similar pick BA. Much as I like BA, however, as you say $444 ain't chump change.

We usually buy our tickets well in advance, but some people like to wait until the last minute to try and score some cheap fares. In your situation with "dates set in stone" you shouldn't wait too much longer. You'll rest easier once your flights are reserved.

Sue

I know exactly how you feel - every time I push that button to purchase my flight, I start to second guess everything.

If your arrival time is really important, US Air also has a nonstop flight to London Gatwick from Philly that arrives at 6:55 am for the same price though it is on a different aircraft. Personally, I think that Gatwick is easier and faster than Heathrow and you can take the Express or another line directly to Victoria Station.

All things being equal I would prefer to save the $444.00. And since you're only a month and a half out from your trip the ticket price will probably increase and selection of arrival times will probably become less desirable.

Save $444 and go with US Air. I would have thought you could get a better fare than that from Philadelphia even if you had to stay in a hotel for 1-2 nights.

You can buy your US Air ticket on Orbitz.com;
if there is a price drop, they will issue you a cash
refund. No ticket changes required, and No fees!

Sue - I know how you're feeling. We all have gone through buyers remorse at one time or another. Take the cheaper flight and spend the money on your vacation.

Also US Airways Passengers traveling to and from Europe, or to and from Asia are exempt from the first and second checked bag fee, but not any applicable weight fees:

There is no baggage fee for the first 2 checked bags if you are flying abroad! I went on a US Air flight to London and back in December and even on the way back when I checked 2 bags instead of the one (i bought lotsa stuff) they didnt charge me.

To me buying airfare is like buying a car.I buy whenI am comfortable and then dont look back.If you buy a car and keep looking you will find someone who got a better deal and feel terrible.So my advice buy when comfortable and dont look back.