Budget flights are getting expensive: How Ryanair and Wizz Air make money from hidden extras

European low-cost carriers, including Ryanair and Wizz Air, are experiencing a significant increase in operational expenses, primarily driven by rising fuel costs. Consequently, these airlines have implemented sharp increases in their basic ticket fares to maintain profitability amidst these economic pressures.

Beyond base fare hikes, the airlines are increasingly relying on revenue generated from ancillary fees and hidden extras to offset rising costs. This shift in pricing strategy means that advertised low-cost fares no longer represent the total financial commitment required for passengers, as additional charges become a more central component of the airlines' business models.