The European Commission has published the results of an investigation into misleading and hidden charges on airline websites.
The clampdown has focussed on websites which are not up front about their fees and charges, misleading claims about sale prices, and traps for consumers such as pre-ticked boxes.
The commission reports that 16 airlines are in full compliance with new laws on airline websites, while some eight have been blacklisted as not co-operating.
Ryanair, Aer Lingus, and Aer Arann are on a 'grey list' of companies which have made commitments to have more transparency on their ticket websites, but have not yet fully fallen into line.
A spokesman for Aer Arann has insisted that the airline has complied with all transparency and clarity requirements on their ticket sales website.
The spokesman said the European Commission had acknowledged the airline’s efforts and says he is mystified as to why the company remains on their 'grey list' of airlines.
Ryanair spokesman Stephen McNamara also insisted the airline has been fully compliant with the requirements of transparency on their flight ticket website since April 1, 2009.
In a statement, Aer Lingus said it has undertaken to make the necessary changes to its website to address the commission's concerns.
It said the commission 'has praised Aer Lingus for its positive action in this regard and its commitment to complying with all relevant consumer standards in the aviation sector.’
A spokesman for the European Commission said the lists of airlines published today were compiled on the basis of an investigation carried out in March of this year.
The blacklist includes Olympic, Turkish Airlines, Royal Moroccan Airlines, Northwest, Air Baltic, Aeroflot, Wing Jet and Emirates.
