New regulations instituted by the U.S. Department of Transportation go into effect today that will require airlines and ticket agents to include all mandatory taxes and fees in advertised airfare rates. This new rule also applies to vacation package deals that include airfare, and were designed to make it easier for passengers to determine the full price they will have to pay for their airfare.

In compliance with these regulations, advertised airfare rates will now include:

• Full-fare pricing
• Fuel surcharges
• Taxes
• Mandatory fees

Advertised airfare rates will not include:

• Fees for carry-ons or checked baggage, as these are dependent on the individual consumer
• Entrance fees or visa fees that may be charged at international airports

Additionally, new DOT regulations also mandate that:

• Airlines must disclose all baggage fees to consumers purchasing tickets
• Airlines must promptly notify passengers of flight delays of more than 30 minutes, as well as flight cancellations and diversions
• Airlines cannot raise rates after a ticket has been purchased
• Passengers can cancel a reservation without penalty within 24 hours of making the reservation, provided the reservation is made more than 1-week prior to a flight’s departure date

“Airline passengers have rights, and they should be able to expect fair and reasonable treatment when booking a trip and when they fly,” U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood said. “The new passenger protections taking effect this week are a continuation of our effort to help air travelers receive the respect they deserve.”

For more information about the new regulations, click on the link below to read the full press release from the U.S. Department of Transportation.