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British Airways throws down gauntlet to budget airlines
23.06.09
British Airways today threw down a challenge to the no-frills carriers by launching a "value calculator" on its website.
Low-fare airlines, such as Ryanair and easyJet, charge for taking hold luggage on flights in an effort to cut down on the basic cost of tickets.
The budget airlines also sometimes charge for check-in facilities and priority boarding.
Today, BA said it was publishing cost comparison details on its website, saying just how much passengers can pay on rival airlines' flights.
BA UK and Ireland sales chief Richard Tams said: "With BA, the price you see is the price you pay.
"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.
"We're just making these transparent for customers.
"On a round trip, customers can be paying up to £375 on Ryanair and £79 on easyJet for these extras in addition to their fare."
Reader views (6)
Loved reading all the comments regarding airlines, I have never even had a holiday and am planning to spend christmas 2009 in London, so thank you for all the great comparisons, I am very nervouis about the whole experience, even before I buy my ticket....
- Elaine, Boggabilla, NSW, Australia
Always found BA to be top notch..fed up with the pushing and stress of travelling with Easyjet or Ryanair. Air travel was supposed to be luxurious..not treated like cattle. I will never fly ryanair again after being taken to the wrong airport..then delayed..they didnt even offer a drink for the inconvenience...BA Business to asia was far better than Emirates..Long distance with BA in Economy vs Virgin and Emirates is better aswell..just the small things like being called by your name when you show your boarding card. Much more pleasant BA..keep up the good work...
- Andy, London
Ryanair rips off its customers and any efforts to highlight that are to be applauded. They are now planning to charge to check in whether online or not , which surely is part of the fare?
- Paul, London
BA is a much better allround service than Ryanair or Easyjet!! Ryanair, in my opinion treat their customers with contempt.
- Dave, Madrid
My wife and I traveled, almost round the World, with British Airways except when we traveled with their partner Qantas Airlines or Airways. I was very satisfied with BA and would travel with them again irrespective of trade disputes-I hope am not talking too soon. I believe I read that Ryanair was going to charge £1 per use of the toilet facilities in flight-I hope I am wrong BA, I believe does not and food is included with the fare you pay!. BA is a national asset and a certain amount of support should be given.
- Arthur Lincoln, Roeselare, Belgium
Shame that British Airways's offering has also become comparable. BA's service is not so good anymore, right at the time that the service of the other European airlines has become much better.
- Steveo, London NW1
