Trainline, Virgin Atlantic probed over hidden fees
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The gist
UK's CMA launched probes into Trainline, Virgin Atlantic, Red Driving School over hidden fees.
Watchdog targets drip pricing to ensure upfront total prices, affecting consumers and firms.
Background
The UK's Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has opened formal investigations into Trainline, Virgin Atlantic, and Red Driving School over concerns that they did not show customers the total price upfront, a practice known as 'drip pricing'. This is part of a broader clampdown on misleading pricing, using new consumer protection powers granted last year. The CMA has previously fined StubHub and the AA for similar practices.
How it unfolded
- recentlyThe CMA issued advisory letters to the three companies as part of its first consumer protection drive under new powers.
- Aug 19, 2026The CMA announced formal investigations into Trainline, Virgin Atlantic, and Red Driving School over drip pricing concerns.
- Aug 19, 2026Trainline shares fell by as much as 14% in early trading after the announcement.
Who’s saying what
- Official
- CMA's Emma Cochrane: 'The first price customers see should be the price they pay.'
- Company
- Trainline said it is 'taking steps to enhance the presentation of certain fees' and has engaged with the CMA.
- Company
- Virgin Atlantic said mandatory fees are indicated at multiple stages and will cooperate with the regulator.
Still unverified
No wrongdoing has been confirmed; the investigations are at an early stage.