The Airlines Charging the Most Hidden Fees

While travelers love Spirit Airlines for its ultra-cheap base fares, the carrier's hidden costs can add up, according to new data gathered by NetVoucherCodes.

The travel site analyzed hidden costs for add-ons such as carry-on baggage, checked bags, seat selection, fast track, insurance and onboard Wi-Fi, reviewing dozens of airlines around the world.

The study defines hidden fees as optional add-ons that airlines offer during booking. While they aren't required to fly they often improve the in-flight experience.

With a flight cost of just $21.89 and total hidden costs of $161.13, Spirit's hidden fees make its base fare more expensive by a whopping 736 percent. Trailing Spirit are Mexican low-cost airline Volaris (626.2 percent), Gulf carrier Etihad Airways (400.8 percent), ultra-low-cost Frontier Airlines (375.88 percent) and Irish budget carrier Ryanair (344.1 percent).

Other airlines charging significant costs for add-ons include Wizz Air, Sun Country Airlines, easyJet, Air Europa and Delta Air Lines, with total hidden costs ranging from $87 to $118.31.

The study also found that airlines, on average, charge a hidden fee of $51.71, with U.S. carriers tending to have higher hidden costs compared to international airlines and Europe coming in around the average.

---

For the latest travel news, updates and deals, subscribe to the daily TravelPulse newsletter.

Topics From This Article to Explore