What circumstances trigger domestic airfare discounts? Domestic airlines publish a standard fare to a given destination, then, for no reason I can understand, start discounting in increments of 5%. What factors determine discounts? Is it smarter to book far in advance or wait until the week of intended travel?

Book in advance and you will get a bigger discount.

I am sure there are exceptions to this rule, but the norm is the the earlier you buy, the cheaper the ticket.

Surprisingly, this has not been my experience in China. I have booked next day travel at deep discounts, and weeks in advance with no discount. This is why I am confused.

For international flight ticket, in 80% situation, the earlier you buy, the cheaper the ticket, but for domestic flight ticket, normailly to buy earliest two weeks ago, or one week ago, you might get better price than you bought 1 month ago(except some airlines have special rate for the ticket issued 15 days before departure). But this regulation is not for peak travelling period, such as national holiday, May holiday and spring festival.

Helen (business.helen@yahoo.com.cn)

went into air china office the other day and they said that discounts begin 10 days prior to departure (for domestic flights). buy before then, and you get no discounts.