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The era of cheap air travel is threatened following another sharp increase in fuel sur-charges by big airlines.

For the second time in a month British Airways has hit passengers with a price increase, this time targeting long-haul passengers who will from Tuesday have to pay £218 on top of the ticket price to cover the cost of fuel.

Struggling to cope with the rising fuel costs, Lufthansa and KLM increased ticket prices while Virgin Atlantic imposed new charges today. The airline joins other carriers that have introduced new fees for services, such as baggage handling, more leg room and even a window seat.

Douglas McNeill, an analyst with Blue Oar Securities, said: 'One more round of increases is likely at least. I wouldn't rule out a second.'

The bad news doesn't end there as more increases are still predicted in the coming months. Experts believe the airlines will seek various avenues to cover the costs by introducing higher fees for already exciting services.

Some say holiday makers will be most affected as people may avoid overseas destinations and opt for something closer to home even though shorter flights will cost more.

Lorna Cowan, editor of Which? Holiday, said: 'I think consumers will be wary about splashing out on far-flung holidays as this increase is a substantial amount.'

Luckily, those who have booked and paid for their trips will escape the extra charges.

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