Archive · 3 Sep 2025
Hidden Airline Fees: How to Spot and Avoid Extra Charges
Airlines often show a low price, but add extra fees later.
These "junk fees" can include charges for baggage, seat selection, and convenience.
Airlines make billions from these.
In India, flyers can pay ₹2,000-₹3,000 extra.
To avoid these, pack light, choose free seats, use airline loyalty programs, book directly on the airline's site and check-in online.
Airlines generate billions from hidden fees, also known as ancillary fees.
These fees cover things not included in the base ticket price, like baggage or seat selection.
In India, flyers pay an average of ₹2,000 to ₹3,000 extra due to these hidden charges.
Examples of these fees include baggage, seat selection, booking/convenience and cancellation fees.
Travelers can avoid fees by packing light, booking directly with the airline, and online check-in.
- Who
- Travelers booking flights.
- What
- Hidden fees charged by airlines.
- When
- Ongoing.
- Where
- Flights globally, with a focus on India.
- Why
- To generate additional revenue for airlines.
- Global Ancillary Revenue (2024)
- $148.4 billion
- Average Extra Paid by Indians
- ₹2,000 to ₹3,000
- Extra Baggage Domestic Fee
- ₹400 to ₹750 per kg
- Extra Baggage International Fee
- $100 to $200 per kg
- Cancellation Fee
- Over ₹3,000 (depending on ticket)
- Convenience Fee
- 10% to 15% of the fare