UK Ferry Tickets

‘Free flights’ or ‘flights for a fiver’? I don’t think so and, now, neither does the European Commission.

This type of advertising, that often irritates the public, could be outlawed by the end of next year. The European Commission has announced plans to force airlines to advertise fares that include all charges.

Of course, there’s plenty of red tape to snip through before that happens. The plans need to be approved by MEPs and 25 national governments, but should become law by December 2007.

Jacques Barrot, the EU transport commissioner, said that too often passengers are confused by apparently attractive fares that turn out to be much higher at the time of purchase.

I disagree. I think consumers are much smarter than that and know there will be extras added on, but are frustrated that they are not told the full price.
At the time of writing, Ryanair was advertising flights from 9p, and clearly stating that this did not include taxes, fees and charges that do not exceed £15.80. Most people would probably prefer to see the exact price advertised.

The Air Transport Users’ Council has complained about the policy of no-frills airlines for some time.

“All these charges are just the cost of doing business and should be included in the headline fare,” said a spokesman. Quite.

Ryanair, for its part, says it is not bothered and if everyone has to show inclusive fares it will just highlight that the airline is cheaper than its competitors.

So, presumably, everyone will be happy to see all-inclusive fares advertised.

What’s your view?

Guest Article by Jeremy Skidmore
 

Thursday, June 7th, 2007