09.Dec.2011 Airlines’ Cheap Tickets Under Scrutiny
Airlines' cheap tickets are under scrutiny by the European Commission. This is because airlines add controversial 'add on' charges to cheap tickets bought by customers, burdening them with unknown expenses.
The practise of selling cheap tickets with hidden charges also faces criticism by the UK consumer groups. Budget airlines that are actually known to charge less airfare are using hidden charges to maximize profitability.
Siim Kallas, a European commission vice-president and the organisation's transport commissioner says that baggage charges, credit and debit card fees plus airport check-in fees that were initially included in the basic fare, are now being treated as different components. This is unfair to customers buying cheap tickets hoping to save on air travel.
Undertaking a new study, Kallas is examining whether EU rules regarding cheap tickets need to be amended. His findings will be reported this autumn with legislative action expected next year.