• December 14, 2010

Continental Airlines is rolling out FareLock, an option that offers customers the opportunity to hold reservations and lock-in ticket prices for either 72 hours or seven days with no commitment to purchase a ticket.

The new feature, offered for a fee on certain domestic and international itineraries, gives customers additional flexibility to plan their travels and Customers may choose FareLock when booking reservations at continental.com and opt for a 72-hour or a seven-day hold.  They may return to complete the transaction at any time between purchasing the lock and its expiration, or they may choose an auto-ticketing feature which tickets at the end of the lock period.

FareLock fees, beginning at $5 for a 72-hour hold and $9 for a seven-day hold, will vary based on a number of factors such as the itinerary, number of days to departure and the length of the hold.  

"FareLock is an innovative option for customers who need extra time to plan their travel before purchasing a ticket," said Chris Amenechi, managing director of merchandising.

The carrier will continue to offer its 24-hour flexible booking policy that allows reservation changes and cancellations with full refund without a fee within 24 hours of booking. For customers choosing FareLock, the 24-hour flexible booking policy remains in effect upon ticketing, although the FareLock fee is non-refundable.--Tanya Irwin