Travelling by air 'could get expensive'

People going on holidays abroad may find that prices are about to rise sharply as airlines try to make up the revenue they are losing on rising fuel prices, it has been claimed.

According to John McCulloch, managing partner of Oneworld Alliance - the group that represents world's leading airlines - companies could soon charge up to £10 per head for food, as well as extra baggage costs in a bid to recoup some cash.

Last week British Airways announced its biggest ever biggest rise in fuel surcharges, adding £60 to the cost of its long-distance return flights, with other economy airlines possibly prepared to follow suit in the same fashion that has already occurred in America.

"People have to realise it is going to get more expensive to travel. Airlines are going to have to find a way of paying for fuel costs or cutting other costs out of the business. My guess is that fares will have to rise to a realistic level. There is only so much you can take out of the operation," Mr McCulloch remarked.

In May, no-frills airline Ryanair increased its fees for baggage and personal check-in by a third.

Passengers who check in themselves and a bag at the airport now face paying £12 each way or £24 return, reports thisismoney.co.uk.