smh.com.au
AFL Grand Final: Interstate and International Fans Flock to Melbourne
Ahead of Saturday's AFL grand final between Geelong and the Brisbane Lions, fans are traveling to Melbourne from across Australia and internationally, with some securing flights months in advance and others facing significantly higher prices for last-minute bookings.
- What is the immediate impact of the AFL Grand Final on air travel to Melbourne?
- Airlines such as Jetstar and Virgin have added numerous extra flights from Brisbane and other locations to accommodate the influx of fans. Jetstar added six return flights from Brisbane, while Virgin added ten flights from Brisbane and an additional 1200 seats, totaling 2900 extra seats.
- How do varying booking times affect the cost of flights to Melbourne for the Grand Final?
- Early booking significantly reduces costs. One fan secured flights for $300 in August, while others paid $566 in July. Last-minute bookings resulted in significantly higher prices, with one fan reporting a cost of $680 for a similar trip and others noting prices exceeding $1900 for comparable flights.
- What are the long-term implications of the event on the airline industry and travel trends?
- This event highlights the significant impact of major sporting events on air travel demand, influencing airline scheduling and pricing strategies. The considerable price difference between early and late bookings emphasizes the importance of advance planning for similar events in the future.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The article presents a balanced view of the grand final, showcasing the journeys of fans from various locations and backgrounds. There's no apparent prioritization of one team over the other in the narrative structure. The headline is neutral, focusing on the fans' travel rather than the game itself. However, the inclusion of specific ticket prices and booking strategies could subtly influence the perception of the financial burden on fans, potentially framing it as a significant issue for some.
Language Bias
The language used is largely neutral and objective. While terms like "extortionate" are used to describe flight prices, they are attributed directly to the fans, making it clear that this is their perception rather than the article's opinion. No loaded language or subjective terms are used to describe either team or its supporters.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses primarily on the fans' travel experiences, omitting details about the game's potential impact on the city of Melbourne, its economic implications, or any broader social commentary. While this focus is reasonable given the article's theme, it represents an omission of context that might be relevant to the wider picture. The article could benefit from briefly mentioning the broader implications of the grand final on the city.
Sustainable Development Goals
The influx of visitors to Melbourne for the AFL Grand Final demonstrates the economic impact of major sporting events on cities. Increased tourism boosts local businesses, hotels, and transportation. While not directly addressing specific SDG targets, the positive economic activity contributes to the overall well-being and vibrancy of the city. The article highlights the economic benefits for airlines and the positive impact on Melbourne's economy.