The Hidden Costs of ‘Cheap’ Flights on the Internet
Shoppers are increasingly taking advantage of ‘cheap’ flights offered by budget airlines in the Internet. But Warwickshire County Council’s Trading Standards Service warns that when you factor in the ‘extras’ some flights can end up being more expensive than those offered by more traditional carriers.
Last month officers from Warwickshire Trading Standards checked out the deals available – with some surprising results.
Strong competition amongst the discount airlines means that flights are advertised from as little as 1p, even including taxes! But remember, the flight you want may not be available at this price.
Also, a number of ‘extras’ will be added to this starting figure.
For example, many people like to pay by credit card because of the extra protection this can afford, but it is now common to be charged for this. Some charge a flat fee, e.g. £3 per booking. Some charge a percentage, e.g. 2% of the total paid. But some will charge a flat amount per passenger per flight, in one case £1.99. For a family of four, this would mean an additional charge of £15.92 for return flights.
Luggage allowances have now been cut on many airlines, with still more charges for exceeding the set limits. One airline’s baggage allowance is now 15 kg, with any extra being charged at £5.50 for each kilo.
You may also be charged extra to book a seat – an important point for those wishing to sit next to their children.
Trading Standards Officers found that it was possible to save 43% by booking with a much bigger ‘non-budget’ airline, simply by flying at night – and there were no hidden extra costs.
Mark Ryder, Head of Warwickshire County Council Trading Standards, said:
“Whilst it’s perfectly reasonable for people to be able to save money by using a different payment methods and not taking very much luggage, the fact is that many people will need to pay these sums. We therefore call upon the budget airlines to make their advertised headline prices clearer, so the average traveller can see just how much they will have to pay and can compare prices.
“Our advice is don’t be drawn in by enticing offers. Shop around before you book.”
Consumers are also reminded that legally, traditional package deals bought from high street travel agents must be backed up by arrangements guaranteeing you a flight home – even if the tour operator goes bust while you are away. But if you have booked your own scheduled flight on the Internet there may be no arrangements made for you if your flight does not take off as planned. If the worst comes to the worst be prepared to book yourself another flight home.
For more information, visit our website: http://www.warwickshire.gov.uk/tradingstandards