Four and a half years after the events of Sept. 11 changed nearly everything about air travel, airlines have not only eliminated free meals but are charging for dozens of services that once were included in ticket prices.
"Peanuts and pretzels - other than that, you pay for everything," said Arlene Blosch, president of the regional chapter of the American Society of Travel Agents and owner of Travel Wizards in Bensalem, referring to just about the only freebie left on planes.
This week, Northwest Airlines added a wrinkle to the pattern by offering to guarantee a coach seat in an emergency row or on the aisle near the front of the cabin for an extra $15. The charge is aimed at business travelers who could wind up in less-desirable middle or window seats if they have to book at the last minute.
Here is a rundown of things that travelers pay extra for. The information was compiled with the help of Blosch and Joe Brancatelli, a consultant, writer and frequent traveler who has his own Web site, www.joesentme.com.
The booking process. For most airlines, the only way to obtain a ticket without paying a fee is to do it yourself online at a carrier's Web site. Buying on the phone or at the airport costs $5 to $15, depending on the airline. Online travel services, including Expedia, Orbitz and Travelocity, charge at least $5.
Travel agents, who normally do not get commissions from airlines, charge $20 and up for each ticket issued. Blosch said the standard fee these days was $35, but some agents, including her, do not charge the fee on bereavement or military fares. You may also get a discount on an agent's fees if booking a vacation package that includes other services, such as hotel reservations, she said.
US Airways, Philadelphia's largest airline, charges $10 for a ticket at an airport ticket counter.
Another recent change that could cost money came after America West Airlines bought US Airways last year. The airline no longer has a 24-hour grace period for canceling a reservation; now you pay as soon as you make the reservation.
Paper tickets now can cost as much as $75. At US Airways, the charge is $50 per paper ticket if an electronic ticket is available. Paper tickets shipped by express courier service can cost an additional $15.
