Charges for services related to airline ticketing, such as booking through a particular channel (e.g., a call center or travel agent) or using a specific payment method, are often applied. For instance, opting for the assistance of a live agent instead of using a website’s self-service features might incur an additional charge. This reflects the cost of providing personalized service.
These charges help airlines offset expenses associated with specific service channels. They can also incentivize passengers to utilize more cost-effective booking methods, like online self-service, ultimately benefiting both the airline and customers seeking the lowest fares. Historically, such charges were less prevalent when most bookings occurred offline. The rise of online travel platforms and varied payment options has led to a more complex pricing structure, making these charges more commonplace.
