DOT proposal could let airlines hide taxes and fees from headline fares

The Department of Transportation released a proposal that would relax the “full fare advertising rule,” allowing airlines to highlight base ticket prices without immediately displaying taxes, airport charges and other fees. While the total fare must still be shown at some point, critics say the change could obscure the true cost until the final checkout step, complicating price comparisons across carriers. Examples cited include a Delta flight from Los Angeles to New York with a $142 base fare versus a $168 total, and a JetBlue route to London where a $21 base fare hides $328 in taxes and fees.

Academics such as Stephen Pratt and Justine Farrell argue the move reduces pricing transparency and could increase consumer frustration. Southwest Airlines, along with trade groups Airlines for America and the Travel Technology Association, asked for a longer comment window, which the DOT granted until Aug. 21. The proposal has attracted roughly 1,000 comments, many urging the agency to keep the existing full-price display rules.