Airline executives questioned by Senate over rising ancillary fees

Lawmakers characterized ancillary fees as a profit-driven tactic. Senator Josh Hawley described flying as a "terrible experience." According to a report, American, Delta, United, Frontier, and Spirit generated $12.4 billion in seat fee revenue between 2018 and 2023.

Airlines for America defended the practice by stating that Americans can choose services they want to pay for. However, lawmakers criticized commissions paid to gate agents by some airlines when customers pay last-minute bag fees. Bobby Schroeter of Frontier argued that such programs enforce airline policies fairly.

Spirit has discontinued its commission practice according to Matt Klein. Lawmakers also criticized airlines' opposition to a Department of Transportation rule requiring clear disclosure of ancillary fees upfront.

The hearing also touched on concerns about airlines' relationships with banks through cobranded credit card programs. Senator Roger Marshall promoted his Credit Card Competition Act aimed at reducing swipe fees but faced criticism for potentially harming credit card rewards programs.

The future actions remain uncertain as lawmakers called for further investigations into airline tactics and clearer data on ancillary revenue collected by airlines.