September 26, 2022
How annoying is it when you’re comparing airline ticket prices and you think you found a great deal but then you forget all the surprise fees that get tacked on in the end. Making it a not so great deal.
Well, the federal government wants to require all airlines and travel booking websites to include *all* fees in the airline ticket price the first time you see it on a booking website.
That means those baggage fees, or seat selection fees, or fees for a little extra leg room will all be calculated in a passenger-specific or itinerary-specific way before you buy. That way you’ll really be able to shop around for the best price for the exact type of flying experience you want.
The White House and Department of Transportation announced this new proposed rule today. They say it will “significantly strengthen protections for consumers.” This rule would apply to all us air carriers, foreign air carriers who travel in, our or through the US and all third party sellers of air transportation including online so-called metasearch sites that display all air travel options.
The rule making process takes a while. This won’t happen overnight. The first step is a public comment period. It’s open now. I put all the information on my website.
More from the Department of Transportation on the new rule here.
