Many time this fee is no longer applied. Of my 12 flights last year, only 4 times was I required to pay the fee.

I suggest that anyone with a non-EU passport book for on-line check-in, initially avoiding the €5 fee. Than note your confirmation number and walk up to the check-in counter. Many times you'll get the boarding card without paying the fee. If you are required to pay the fee, just request it back after your flight. It takes one (!) fax and usually 7 days and the amount is refunded.

Considering that I flew only flights that cost a total of €0.01 (incl. fees and taxes), even paying the €5 initially; what greater bargains are out there??
(I do have VISA Electron and avoid the CC fees)