Neo is arguing that they could have spent more money
at Universal, versus budgeting around last minute hotels and flight costs. While UOR knows fans are going to come at some point in the event no matter what, it's not out of the question to consider the impact of ticket release timing on in-park/event spending.
If I had to take a flight somewhere, and it increased $200 more than before, I'd probably take that $200 from my existing budget versus spending more. $200 less in merch/F&B/unmasking tours like Neo mentioned, etc.
This is where Universal (as today shows) needs to improve on communication in advance of ticket sales.
HHN no longer solely relies on local fans who repeat visits... yet the FF pass system still reflects that. I'd completely remove the add-on express option from every pass level and simply offer a discount on a nightly basis. I'd also clean up the ticketing structure
Rush of Fear - access starts the 2nd week of the event, ends the 4th week on Sunday. Reservation required before 10PM
Frequent Fear - reservation required before 10PM, no Saturdays*
Ultimate Frequent Fear - no reservations, access all days
Also free parking for all passes. I think it's ridiculous they wait until midnight to make it free.
I'd also replace the HHN Preview Night with a Media Night to avoid capacity constraints from RIP tours for the first weekend. (Not removing RIP tour entirely, just limiting access to reduce the strain it causes on the event)
There were a few Fridays/Sundays that were somewhat quieter last year while most Wed-Thr nights were chaotic. So provide the opportunity for people to visit on Fridays/Sundays who typically couldn't because of their pass level should help spread crowds out more.
UOR could obviously limit capacity in advance on busier single-night ticket days to fluctuate demand.
This may not be right solution, but something needs to change unfortunately.