TRANSPORTATION

Airlines Delay Fare Hike: Major U.S. airlines have postponed scheduled fare increases for a week, citing a price move by a competing carrier. American, United and Trans World Airlines all said they postponed fare increases set for last Friday, citing Continental Airlines’ decision to put a fare increase into effect last Thursday. Spokesman Joe Hopkins said United had elected to match Continental for a domestic fare increase. American said it was holding off on its fare increases until Thursday, while it studies Continental’s move. “On Oct. 15, we plan to match United,” said American’s John Hotard. “We are continuing to study the Continental plan.” Spokesman Richard Danforth said Continental’s new fares will typically result in increases of $10 to $30 on domestic flights systemwide.