Airfare price war: Pick an airline, any airline for special sales rates

What if they gave a discounted airfare party and everybody came? That’s pretty much what’s been going on Wednesday as many carriers announced sales with just a few days in which to book.

Check airline websites for their current specials and remember to read the fine print for minimum stays, days of the week to travel and blackout dates while planning your autumn or winter getaway. Here are some fares I liked. All of them are quoted excluding taxes and fees:

Southwest Airlines [(800) 435-9792]: Among the best prices are one-way fares from Los Angeles to Oakland, Sacramento or Phoenix starting at $59; Denver for $99; and some Midwest cities such as St. Louis, Tulsa, Okla., and Minneapolis for $149. You have to purchase by 11:59 p.m. PDT Thursday for travel through Dec. 14.

American Airlines [(800) 433-7300]: If you plan to fly to Florida in fall or winter, check out fares from Los Angeles (each way, based on round-trip purchase) to West Palm Beach starting at $139, Orlando for $149 and Miami for $154. Purchase by 9:59 p.m. PDT Tuesday for travel through Jan. 26.

Alaska Airlines/Horizon Air [(800) 252-7522]: I couldn’t resist including this deal from San Diego. The airline is offering a $189 one-way fare from San Diego to the Hawaiian island of Maui for travel on Mondays through Thursdays from Oct. 22 to Feb. 16. Reservations must be made by 11:59 PDT Oct. 13.

Virgin American Airlines [(877) 359-8474]: Good for last-minute hops with just one-day advance puchase to snag one-way fares from Los Angeles to Seattle starting at $99 and Orlando for $179. Travel between Thursday and Oct. 14 and book by 11:59 PDT Oct. 13.