United Kingdom
United States
Asia Pacific
Airlines’ hidden fees under scrutiny
Airlines could face a crackdown on hidden fees, as part of a new government plan to improve transparency for people shopping online.
A public consultation will look at ways to end the ‘drip pricing.’
Government officials say the practice is ‘widespread’ and spans beyond the airline industry to many other sectors.
According to research, it costs consumers about £1.6bn a year.
The consultation will last for six weeks.
Airlines’ many extra services such as expedited boarding, checked bags and seat selection, come at a price and are often initially hidden.
It makes straightforward comparison-shopping problematic.
Research finds three-quarters of transport providers, including airlines are not fully transparent in pricing.
Business Minister Kevin Hollinrake says the new proposals would make sure consumers have ‘the clearest and most accurate information upfront’ before making a purchase.
“Fake reviews and hidden fees can make choices increasingly confusing and leaves customers unsure about what product is right for them.”
“We’ll be listening to industry to ensure these new regulations work for businesses too and don’t generate unnecessary burdens.”
The consultation will address unexpected charges at the airport.
Airlines have argued that ‘unbundling’ extra services gives consumers more choice.
Industry body Airlines UK said: “Delivering value for consumers is at the heart of an airline business.
“UK airlines look forward to responding to the consultation published today.”
TravelMole Editorial Team
Editor for TravelMole North America and Asia pacific regions. Ray is a highly experienced (15+ years) skilled journalist and editor predominantly in travel, hospitality and lifestyle working with a huge number of major market-leading brands. He has also cover in-depth news, interviews and features in general business, finance, tech and geopolitical issues for a select few major news outlets and publishers.
Mark Jaronski of Explore Georgia on FIFA World Cup 2026
Connecting Small Businesses to Global Tourism Markets: Nate Huff of Tourism Exchange
North Carolina’s Resilience: Wit Tuttell on Recovery and Tourism
Kittipong Prapattong’s Plan for Thailand’s Tourism Growth: Taxes, Visas, and Campaigns
James Jin: Didatravel’s Journey from China to Global Reach and the Impact of AI on Travel
Darien Schaefer on Pensacola’s Evolution: From Small Town to Global Destination
Florida Tourism’s Next Frontier: Dana Young on Expanding Beyond the Classics
Patrick Harrison on Tampa Bay Tourism’s Resilience and Marketing Strategy
Bubba O’Keefe on Clarksdale’s Vibrant Music Scene
Commemorating Elvis and Embracing Tupelo’s Culture with Jennie Bradford Curlee
Craig Ray and the Expansion of the Blues Trail
Presenting Mississippi’s Cultural Trails with Katie Coats
BA suspending all Heathrow to Abu Dhabi flights
Turkish Airlines flight in emergency landing after pilot dies
Unexpected wave rocks cruise ship
Woman dies after going overboard in English Channel
Foreign Office issues travel advisory for winter sun destinations