Business Travel - Airline Fees: What’s Up and How to Keep Them Down

Increasingly, airline passengers are noticing that they’re being charged fees for a variety of items that previously were free. Frequently referred to as “ancillary fees,” this additional revenue stream is improving airline profitability, which means you’ll be seeing more of them. While fees vary by airline, here’s a snapshot of recent fees, and advice on how to minimize the impact.

Baggage

Carry-Ons: Most airlines still don’t charge for one carry-on, but they are stricter about size requirements. Budget airlines may charge $25 to $50 for a carry-on.

Checked Bags: A checked bag or two usually costs between $15 and $30 apiece. After that, fees skyrocket: extra, overweight or oversized luggage can cost up to $200 per bag.

Ticket Changes

Charges for changing your ticket vary dramatically, from $20 to $200, but usually less for same-day travel.

Boarding Passes

Some budget airlines may charge $10 for printing out your boarding pass at the airport.

Seat Selection/Preferred Seating

Some budget airlines charge $10 for the option of choosing your seat, but most carriers still provide that service for free… unless you want “preferred seating.” Desirable aisle and window seats near the front can run $20 to $100 or more, depending on trip distance.

Priority Boarding

Want to board early along with First Class passengers? That privilege could cost you $9 to $25.

Inflight Food

While most airlines still provide a complimentary beverage and snack (the customary nuts, pretzels or cookies), additional food is usually available from $1 to $15. Be prepared as most airlines only take credit cards.

Inflight WiFi

Not every airline offers inflight WiFi, but if they do, the costs vary. Some charge by the hour with prices starting around $5, while others offer a flat rate per-flight. Some airlines offer daily, monthly and annual packages.

Since ancillary fees can make a real dent in your travel budget, work with your travel professional to minimize the impact. Here are a few tips:

·         If you usually travel on one particular airline, see if they have a credit card that offers discounts and perks, like priority boarding.

·         Before choosing the carrier for your trip, check out how the fees add up. For example, if you’re bringing lots of luggage, the budget airline may cost more than you think.

·         Book online, and watch for add-ons. Some airlines offer products and services like travel insurance that require you to opt out if you don’t want them.

·         Know your airline’s dimensions and restrictions for carry-on and checked luggage. Make packing light easier by choosing one color theme (brown or black) to cut down on the needed shoes and accessories.

·         Check-in online exactly 24 hours in advance. If the carrier allows free seat selection, you can get best seat possible at that time.

·         Road warriors should look into WiFi packages vs. paying per flight.