CMA probes Trainline, Virgin Atlantic and RED Driving School for hidden fees

The Competition and Markets Authority is investigating Trainline, Virgin Atlantic and RED Driving School for possible drip-pricing, where mandatory costs are omitted from the headline price shown to customers. The regulator cited examples such as Trainline adding up to £2.79 to train tickets and £1.50 to coach bookings, and warned that such extra charges can accumulate for frequent travellers. Virgin Atlantic is under scrutiny for potentially leaving out resort fees and local taxes that may amount to hundreds of pounds in holiday packages.

The CMA also flagged RED Driving School for possibly concealing booking and digital fees exceeding £7 per lesson. Both Trainline and Virgin one outlet said they are committed to transparency and will work fully with the investigation, while RED Driving School has not been contacted for comment. If violations are confirmed, the CMA could impose fines or require compensation for affected consumers.