Passengers' urgent plea to fight air fare 'drip pricing'

URGENT action is needed to combat the problem of hidden airline fees, which are expected to continue soaring over the next decade, experts say.

- Emily Braeger

Extraordinary demand for travel since the pandemic has led to steep fare rises on many routes.

And the International Air Transport Association said flyers can expect to pay more in the next 10 to 15 years, as firms increase the use of "greener" - and more expensive - jet fuels.

The practice of "drip pricing" is so widespread that it costs consumers across a range of industries £1.6 billion a year, the Government said.

It involves part of a product's price being advertised initially, before extra costs are added on before a purchase.

Last month the Government put forward a proposal to crack down on the online sales technique, after it found 72% transport and telecoms firms used it - as well as 54% in entertainment and 56% in hospitality.