Originally Posted by
lseflyer
An area that needs to be addressed is code shares. The rules/fees for a code share should not be allowed to be different then on the ticketing carrier, i.e., if DL doesn't charge me a baggage fee then the code share partner should not be able to if I buy the ticket from DL. If delta charges a fee, the code share should not be higher. If my status lets me choose seats, stand by for earlier flights, earn qualifying miles, etc., I should have the same rights on the code share if I buy the ticket from DL.
Let's position it in a way I think the DOT will find it actionable (sales practices). Maybe say something like:
Consumers are blind sided by fees that are not disclosed at time of booking when a code share is involved. Because of the nature of codeshares there is a complex and difficult to understand sequence of who's fees apply. Often the first carrier for the days travel apply.
It is not usual for a consumer to pay no fees on the leg out of the US including a connection with a foreign code share partner. However, on the return leg the foreign carrier's fees would apply and be collected.
At time of sale a code share doesn't disclose a different set of fees apply. Although airlines have become quite sophisticated advising the customers on the day of travel. Often they are able to alert the customer of who and where to check-in with. That same technology should be applied to disclosing fees.