The UK Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has opened formal investigations into Trainline, Virgin Atlantic, and Red Driving School over pricing practices that may fail to show all mandatory charges upfront.

CMA executive director Emma Cochrane stressed that clear pricing helps consumers compare offers and that unexpected mandatory charges hinder informed decision-making.

Virgin Atlantic is specifically investigated for mandatory resort fees and local taxes on package holidays, with emphasis on ensuring these charges are shown clearly during the booking process.

The CMA did not determine lawbreaking at this stage; potential infringements could lead to compensation for affected customers and fines up to 10% of global turnover if found.

The CMA previously sent advisory letters to the firms in November 2025 and continues monitoring, signaling concern without a finding of violations yet.

The report sits within a broader political push to tackle cost-of-living issues and crackdown on ‘rip-off’ practices, as referenced by senior government figures.

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Red Driving School has been contacted for comment, with consumer group Which? urging the CMA to deploy enforcement powers if pricing rules were breached.

Which? reinforced calls for strict CMA enforcement against any firms breaking pricing rules, following advisory warnings and political emphasis on fair pricing.

Industry and consumer voices underscore the need for strict enforcement to protect consumers and maintain fair competition.

Since strengthening enforcement powers, the CMA reports securing over £1.95 million in refunds and nearly £6.2 million in fines, with driving schools and other cases already ordered to refund customers.