Senate report calls for crackdown on airline fees; Hotel industry blasts Expedia-Orbitz deal

HOUSTON – A new Senate report is urging the government to take action on airline fees that could be unfair or hidden from flyers.

According to the report, lawmakers found no connection between the fee for a checked bag and the costs incurred by the airline. The Department of Transportation has the power to investigate and prohibit "unfair or deceptive" practices in the industry. The report has recommended the DoT investigate whether bag fees should be tied to actual costs incurred by an airline.

The hotel industry is objecting the proposed merger of Expedia and Orbitz. The American Hotel and Lodging Association said if the deal does happen, the two firms would control 95 percent of U.S. online travel agency bookings. The group said that a deal would "severely reduce consumer choice" and lead to higher prices for vacationers, while also incurring higher fees for hotel owners.

The proposed buyout is still under review by the Justice Department.