US senators are cracking down on airlines for charging customers extra fees for seats, checked bags, and other services that used to be included in the ticket price. The Senate Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations held a hearing with airline executives, who defended their fee structures as providing consumers with choices.
Airlines argue they offer customers what they want: options to pay for additional services like extra legroom or checked bags. However, some senators, including Sen. Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., say these fees are “junk fees” that should be clearly described during the ticket-buying process and not charge travelers more based on arbitrary rules.
The Transportation Security Administration reported a new single-day record for traveler screenings, with traffic at airport checkpoints up 5% over last year. Despite criticism from lawmakers, airline profits have increased due to higher demand. But some senators say these fees make it difficult for consumers to budget their trips and are unfair to passengers who follow the rules.
The industry is fighting back against new regulations requiring more disclosure of baggage and cancellation fees, with some executives even receiving bonuses for identifying passengers who don’t comply with airline policies. The dispute between the airlines and lawmakers highlights ongoing tensions over airline fees and regulations.
Source: https://apnews.com/article/senate-hearing-airlines-fees-seats-bags-3cd4a1fc1b29fc04f9607adea7b5bdf4