Biden administration proposes new rules to increase disclosure of airline fees

President Joe Biden on Monday announced new rules requiring airlines and online travel agencies to disclose seat selection fees, checked baggage and other extras alongside fares, the administration’s latest effort to bolster passenger protections after a tough summer travel season.

Airlines charge travelers for a number of extra perks, which used to come with the cost of the ticket, including advanced selection fees for many seats on the plane, even those without extra legroom.

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

“You should know the full cost of your ticket, when comparing shopping,” Biden said.

Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said in a press release earlier on Monday that the proposed rule “requires airlines to be transparent with customers about the fees they charge, which will help travelers make informed decisions and save money.”

Airlines for America, which represents major US airlines, said airlines are already transparent about ticket fees.

“A4A’s member airlines – a fierce competition – are already providing transparency to consumers from first search to landing,” the group said in a statement. “US airlines are committed to providing the highest quality of service, which includes clarity regarding prices, fees and ticket terms.”

Airlines and online travel agencies have updated their websites in recent years to highlight the details of basic economy tickets, the most restrictive but cheapest airfares. Airlines executives have said they want passengers to avoid those tickets in favor of more flexible economy fares.

The Biden administration’s proposal comes less than two months after the Department of Transportation sought stricter standards for when airlines must refund passengers for delays.