IF you are tempted by that cheap flight to France then you may want to do some more web browsing, as low-cost airlines can be more expensive than full service operators.
Officers of Warwickshire Trading Standards compared prices on the web and found low-cost airlines can be as much as 43 per cent more expensive.
Their research found that although ticket prices can start at 1p, simple extras that might make a journey a little easier are usually charged for and can soon see bargain flights become expensive.
For example, payment by credit card can see a flat fee charge, a percentage of the ticket cost or a flat fee per passenger per journey, with one airline charging £1.99 meaning a family of four faces an additional cost of £15.92 for a return flight.
Mark Ryder, head of Warwickshire County Council Trading Standards, said: “Whilst it’s perfectly reasonable for people to be able to save money by using a different payment methods and not taking very much luggage, the fact is that many people will need to pay these sums.
“We therefore call upon the budget airlines to make their advertised headline prices clearer, so the average traveller can see just how much they will have to pay and can compare prices.
“Our advice is don’t be drawn in by enticing offers. Shop around before you book.”
Trading Standards Officers found that it was possible to save 43 per cent by booking with a much bigger ‘non-budget’ airline, simply by flying at night – and there were no hidden extra costs.
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