Feds could scrap rules requiring airlines to disclose airfares in full
A Transportation Department proposal could obscure the cost of a plane ticket, aviation experts warn. Here's what to know.
A proposed rule by the Department of Transportation could make it harder for consumers to compare flight prices and understand the total cost of a ticket, according to aviation industry experts. Currently, airlines are required to prominently display the total price of a ticket, including taxes and fees, to help consumers make informed decisions about their travel plans.
However, the Transportation Department is considering allowing airlines to show the individual components of a ticket, such as taxes and fees, without making them stand out visually. This change could make it more difficult for customers to see the true cost of a flight upfront, potentially leading to confusion and surprise when they reach the checkout stage.
Some airlines, like Southwest, oppose the proposed rule change, arguing that it could confuse customers who have become accustomed to interpreting fares as the all-in cost of a plane ticket. The public comment period for the proposed changes is open until August 21, with the Transportation Department reviewing feedback before issuing a final rule.
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