Up in the Air

I barely remember my first commercial flight, probably a DC3. What a far cry that is from today with jets and super jets. I recently received a promotion for flights to Europe ranging from $518-633. My curiosity evoked another senior moment. Here's why.

Airlines, like all of us, have to make ends meet. And that can be tough at times. Here are some of the disclaimers (some of you may have experienced subtle add-ons in other areas). Sales and promotions listed in this e-mail may have expired, may have changed, or may not be available anymore at the time you receive the newsletter

The information provided in this e-mail may include inaccuracies and typographical errors . . . [our] subsidiaries and affiliates are not liable for any claims of damages, loss or injury to persons or property arising out of this e-mail

Unless otherwise indicated, companies listing fares on may not include all applicable taxes, charges and government imposed fees. The following overview [will] give you an idea of what additional fees and taxes may apply

Passenger Facility Charges of up to $18.00 USD may apply depending upon the itinerary chosen. . . A federal excise tax or segment fee of up to $3.50 USD does apply per flight segment, if this tax is not included already in the advertised fare. A flight segment is defined as one takeoff and one landing

A September 11th Security Fee of $2.50 USD applies per flight segment. U.S. or international government imposed taxes and fee of up to $200.00 USD may apply depending upon the itinerary chosen. Some travel companies or their agents may impose shipping and/or handling fees if you request paper tickets or for certain types of transactions

Companies listing offers may charge a service fee. Itinerary changes, if permitted for the fare, may have a charge fee of up to $200.00 USD that will vary by market, carrier and specific fare rule

No, I am not picking on the travel industry. But I am concerned that so much of our culture is adding hidden fees, shrinking containers, partially filling same sized boxes, raising and lowering gasoline prices like a yo yo, manipulating bank and credit card adjustments and on and on

Plus the proliferation of small print when we really need big print. A word to the wise is sometimes but not always sufficient. Be aware and beware.