Huntsville, Ala., has highest fares, topping Cincinnati

— -- Passengers flying from Huntsville, Ala., pay the highest airfares in the USA, according to the Department of Transportation. Its average fare in the first quarter was $505, and it was the only domestic airport to top the $500 mark.

For the first time in years, Cincinnati is no longer the most expensive airport but remains in second place with an average fare of $446. It registered the biggest year-to-year average fare decrease among all airports, down 16.8%.

Grand Rapids, Mich. ($418); Savannah, Ga. ($405); and Des Moines ($403) round out the top five most expensive airports.

Not surprisingly, airports served by low-cost carriers generally had the lowest fares. The five least expensive were: Long Beach ($207); Oakland ($227); Burbank, Calif. ($231); Dallas Love Field ($231); and Las Vegas ($235).

The average domestic fare — round trip or one way for which no return is purchased — was $315 in the first quarter, 9.1% lower than the fourth quarter of 2008 and the biggest quarter-to-quarter drop on record, according to DOT's Bureau of Transportation Statistics.

What's new

Detroit Metro to pour only Pepsi

Expect to see a lot more Pepsi signs at Detroit Metro in coming years. The airport has signed a beverage "pouring-rights" deal with Pepsi that makes it the official drink at its more than 70 restaurants and shops. All Coke products will be removed.

Exclusive agreements are becoming increasingly common at airports, which are eager to generate more non-aviation revenue as passenger traffic continues to decrease.

•Los Angeles International

is opening a Pink's Hot Dogs location in Tom Bradley International Terminal later this year. The landmark hot dog shop has been in its current Hollywood location for 70 years and is best known for its chili dogs. Many of its hot dogs are named after celebrities. The shop is part of LAX's plans to feature more local food vendors.

•Des Moines International