Differentiate between Published and Unpublished Air fare.

Published and unpublished airfares refer to the ways in which airlines distribute and sell their ticket prices, each having distinct characteristics.

Published Airfare:

1. Public Availability: Published airfares are openly available to the public through various distribution channels, including airline websites, travel agencies, and online travel agencies (OTAs).
2. Consistency: These fares are standardized and consistent across different distribution channels. The same fare is generally available to all consumers.
3. Regulation: Published fares are subject to regulatory oversight, and airlines must adhere to certain pricing rules and transparency requirements.
4. Flexibility: Airlines may update published fares periodically based on market conditions, demand, or other factors. However, these changes are typically made within a structured framework.

Unpublished Airfare:

1. Restricted Access: Unpublished airfares are not publicly disclosed or available through all channels. They may be offered to specific groups, such as consolidators, tour operators, or members of loyalty programs.
2. Flexibility: Airlines have more flexibility in setting and changing unpublished fares, allowing them to negotiate pricing with specific partners or tailor discounts based on agreements.
3. Customization: Unpublished fares may be customized for certain market segments or promotional purposes, offering airlines greater control over pricing strategies.
4. Availability: These fares may have limited availability and are often not visible to the general public. Travel agents or specific groups may have access to these fares through negotiated contracts or agreements.

In summary, while published airfares are openly available and subject to regulatory standards, unpublished airfares are more exclusive, often tailored for specific partners or markets, and provide airlines with greater flexibility in pricing.