Holidaymakers have been told airlines raising prices during peak times is "not unusual", although many could save money elsewhere - such as through buying
online travel insurance.
According to the Association of European Airlines (AEA), the practice of selling airfares for more during summer holidays or the festive season is not a recent development.
David Henderson, spokesperson for the AEA, said even when fares used to be fixed over an entire season "there might be 'low', 'shoulder', 'peak' and 'peak of peak' levels".
He suggested holidaymakers would be more likely to find good deals during quieter times of year, as busier flights tend to have fewer cheap seats available.
Airfare prices tend to rise sharply in the days just before December 25th, but fall immediately after, explained Mr Henderson.
His comments follow news a number of major US airlines - such as American Airlines and Delta - have increased their surcharges during peak holiday periods to $20 (£12) each way.
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