Pricing:
Charter companies try to sell their packages first - more revenue, more profit. They only discount at the last minute (last 6 weeks usually) to fill otherwise unsold capacity. That applies to both flight seats and accommodation.
Low cost airlines generally operate the other way round, increasing their fares nearer the departure date. Works a treat on business routes. However, there has also been some evidence of the locos pricing high when releasing flights, presumably to catch those who know when and where they have to travel. In my experience, the best time to book a loco flight (outside high season) is about 2 - 3 months before departure.