Could extra fees for using a credit card to pay become the airline industry’s hot new trend?

Some airlines are adding on credit card transaction fees at the time of ticket purchase that far exceed their actual cost, and are only disclosed at the very last stage of the purchase process. Spirit charges $4.90 for the favor of running your plastic, and Allegiant charges $14. With American Airline’s laser eye on the bottom line and US Airways trying to do everything Spirit does, might this become the latest fee fad for the struggling airline industry? Christopher Elliot thinks so.

(Thanks to Rebecca!) (Photo: Cranky Media Guy)

Want more consumer news? Visit our parent organization, Consumer Reports, for the latest on scams, recalls, and other consumer issues.