the buzz log

Fed-up consumers are vocal about high gas prices, and airlines are hoping to take advantage of their anger. The troubled industry has asked its customers to write letters to Congress regarding the high price of oil.

Our first reaction upon reading the news? The airlines have clearly lost their minds—since when does Congress actually do anything? But, according to several articles within the Buzz, that may not be the point. By framing the energy crisis as a "we're all in this together" type way, the airlines have the opportunity to shift consumer anger to someone else.

So, who is "someone else." Well, as CNN explains, the airlines want Congress to go after speculators and regulate their buying and selling more aggressively. Airlines contend that rampant speculation is the reason they are having to pay so much for jet fuel, and, in turn, are having to charge passengers for the privilege of drinking a Pepsi in 22B.

Whether or not the strategy works, it has certainly gathered up a stream of buzz. News outlets from NPR to Current are covering the story. In fact, Current even has a copy of the email sent to fliers. Check it out and judge for yourself if the new strategy is gonna fly.