Unfortunately, explained Elliott, co-founder of the Consumer Travel Alliance and a nationally syndicated travel columnist, airlines sometimes use weather as an excuse for delays that are primarily caused by other issues.

BBC: How to minimise the effect of travel disasters

The site, which was developed by the Business Travel Coalition, American Society of Travel Agents and Consumer Travel Alliance, invites travelers to share stories about surprise fees and sign a petition protesting them.

MSN: Hidden fees have airline passengers in a frenzy