Airline Hacks & Fees

Airlines have quietly turned fees into a second business, and the menu is not posted anywhere helpful. This section breaks down how the charges actually work — seat selection, bags, changes, upgrades — and the legitimate ways around them: senior discounts that still exist at Delta, United, and American, free perks written into DOT rules, and booking habits that save real money without loyalty-program gymnastics. No miles-and-points wizardry required. Just the practical moves a retired industry friend would walk you through at the kitchen table, each one checked against current airline policy so you’re never arguing with a gate agent over outdated advice.