By Ending Change Fees, U.S. Airlines Gain a New Marketing Tool

Why Delta, American and United all axed the pesky charges

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The airline industry’s myriad fees have been a bone of contention with travelers for years, and the change fee—which charges fliers as much as $200 to take a different flight after purchasing a ticket—is one of the most hated.

But this week, within a few hours of one another led by United Airlines, almost every major U.S. airline eliminated those pesky charges. It’s one less pain point travelers will have to worry about when they’re already concerned about their health and safety (when was the last time that tray table was disinfected?)

United was the first airline to make the decision, announcing the change Sunday afternoon.

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