No-frills charges exposed by BA 'value calculator'

British Airways has gone on the offensive against its no-frills competitors by launching an online Value Calculator that exposes their hidden charges.

The new facility allows would-be passengers to select preferences such as baggage and optional extras, before comparing surcharges from BA, Ryanair and easyJet.

Included in the calculator are variables such as priority boarding, airport check-in and on-board snacks, as well as four different luggage categories.

When the most expensive options are chosen, Ryanair's advertised return fares are inflated by a whopping £375, while easyJet's prices swell by £79.85.

"It's been well documented that some of the no-frills carriers charge for a range of 'extras' that we consider to be part of our core service, from checking in a bag to food and drinks on board," commented BA spokesman Richard Tams.

He concluded: "With BA, the price you see is the price you pay."

Ironically, though, the release of the calculator comes alongside a report that BA Chief Executive Willie Walsh wants to introduce surcharges for snacks and drinks.

© Cheapflights Ltd

Comments

[Steve]

While the basic concept is correct, it doesn't factor in the extra cost/hassle of having to use major airports such as Heathrow etc. rather than Luton or Stansted.

Steve
www.lovelycolour.com