Justice Department is investigating possible collusion by some airlines
A Justice Department spokeswoman has confirmed an investigation into possible “unlawful coordination” by some airlines.
Spokeswoman Emily Pierce confirmed the investigation in a statement after the Associated Press broke news of the probe, Reuters and the Associated Press report.
According to a document obtained by AP, the civil antitrust probe considers whether major airlines sought to limit available seats to keep prices high. The probe appears to focus on possible signaling by the airlines on their timing for adding new flights, routes and seats.
The average airfare has increased 13 percent, after an adjustment for inflation, from 2009 to 2014. The industry is also profiting from extra fees, earning an extra $6.6 billion in the last year for checked bags and changed reservations.
