A Consumer Travel Alliance analysis has found that hidden fees levied by airlines on popular routes can boost the base cost of an airline ticket by an average of 54% for a typical traveler with two checked bags and extra legroom, or by an average of 26% for a comparable one-bag traveler.

Consumer Travel Alliance conducted the analysis by examining base fares and extra charges for nine major airlines for a typical October flight itinerary on four popular routes – New York-Los Angeles, Boston-Washington, Chicago-Miami, and Washington-Orlando.

By the way, the analysis included just two of the many common fees now charged by the airlines: checked baggage and extra legroom. Continue reading »