American Airlines cut flights

American Airlines has sought to clarify the reasons for the dramatic flight cuts to the Caribbean instead of increasing ticket prices.



Spokeswoman Minnette Velez said American Airlines chose to cut flights so that customers could still afford to travel on the carrier.



The cuts, which are set for September, will be felt mostly at the airline’s hub in Puerto Rico, which also serves the Caribbean region.



The carrier, a dominant force in Caribbean air transport, has been grappling with record-high fuel prices.



Some analysts say fares will rise unavoidably, as fewer seats will be available.