TAMPA, Florida - Several low cost carriers are fighting a Department of Transportation rule set to take effect at the end of January requiring that airlines post full ticket prices on their websites, not just the base fare.
The rule would force airlines to calculate all taxes and fees up front instead of adding those amounts in later as a customer prepares to check out.
Consumer advocates say the change will make it easier for passengers to shop for the lowest fare and compare airlines without the surprise of added fees at the end of the transaction. But several low-cost carriers fighting the rule in a Washington, D.C. court say the requirements are a violation of free speech in advertising.
A spokeswoman for Allegiant Air, which serves Tampa Bay out of St. Pete/Clearwater Airport, says the rule discriminates against the airline industry. "This is inconsistent with almost every other transaction consumers engage in on a daily basis," says Kristine Shattuck-Cooper.
She points out customers who purchase a car or who go online to buy a book don't see the taxes added on with the original price and neither should airline customers. But many passengers at Tampa International Airport disagree and say the total fare for each flight will make it much easier to compare prices and know exactly how much a flight will cost.
"That's fabulous," said Joanne White, who travels to Florida to visit her grandchildren.
The rule scheduled to take effect January 26th would also require airlines to calculate the cost of baggage fees before the ticket is purchased. Passengers would also be allowed to cancel new reservations within 24 hours without a fee, as long as the flight is more than a week away.