Biden administration announces new travel rules to fight ‘unnecessary hidden fees’

New rules regarding airline fees.

 

US President Joe Biden will unveil new regulations designed to tackle persistent inflation by requiring airline companies and internet-service providers to be more transparent about hidden fees.

 

The rules will require airlines and online travel agencies to disclose fees for seat selection, checked baggage and other add-ons along with fares.

 

The president outlined the Transportation Department’s new proposed rules during a speech at a meeting at the White House Competition Council on Monday.

 

“You should know the full cost of your ticket, right when you’re comparison shopping,” Biden said.

 

“They cancel on you, and you have to pay a fee to rebook,” he said. “Come on, man. It’s just simply not fair. It’s not fair.”

 

The administration argued that the new regulations would lead to increased competition between carriers.

 

“Capitalism without competition isn’t capitalism,” the President said. “It’s exploitation.”

 

In a statement, Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said passengers deserve to know the true cost of their flights before they buy a ticket.

 

“This new proposed rule would require airlines to be transparent with customers about the fees they charge, which will help travelers make informed decisions and save money,” he said.

 

Airlines for America, a trade group that represents major US air carriers, said carriers already offer “transparency to consumers.”

 

“A4A member passenger airlines – which are fierce competitors – already offer transparency to consumers from first search to touchdown. US airlines are committed to providing the highest quality of service, which includes clarity regarding prices, fees and ticket terms,” the trade group told CNN.

 

“A4A passenger carriers provide details regarding the breakdown of airfares on their websites, providing consumers clarity regarding the total cost of a ticket. This includes transparency regarding taxes and government fees on airline tickets, which account for more than 20% of many domestic one-stop, roundtrip tickets.”