Andy Burnham confirms ban on 'rip-off' airline charges for UK passengers

UK passengers should see fewer “rip-off” add-on fees after Prime Minister Andy Burnham confirmed new rules banning extra charges for certain flight-related costs. The regulations will require airlines to seat children under 14 next to their parents or an accompanying adult on all UK flights at no additional cost. The Department for Transport says families could have faced up to £104 on a round trip to sit together, a practice set to be removed before next summer’s holiday season. The reforms will also outlaw unnecessary administrative fees, allowing passengers to amend minor booking errors—like name mistakes that can cost as much as £40—to avoid charges. Officials say the Civil Aviation Bill needs Royal Assent for implementation, and the changes aim to align more closely with EU protections.