Senators Criticize Airlines Over 'Junk Fees' and Passenger Treatment

Executives from major U.S. airlines face bipartisan scrutiny over fees, AI-driven pricing, and customer dissatisfaction during Senate hearing.

The Senate Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations grilled executives from United, Delta, American, Spirit, and Frontier Airlines over billions in fees for seats, baggage, and other services.
Sen. Josh Hawley and Sen. Richard Blumenthal accused airlines of exploiting passengers with hidden fees and poor service, likening customers to 'walking piggy banks.'
Airlines defended their practices, claiming fees offer customers choices and help keep base fares low, but admitted to paying employees bonuses to enforce baggage size rules.
Spirit Airlines, which recently filed for bankruptcy, and Frontier faced particular criticism for charging inconsistent fees and incentivizing gate agents to flag oversized bags.
Concerns were raised about the use of AI algorithms to dynamically price tickets and fees, with executives refusing to commit to transparency or limits on such practices.