Looking for a cheap flight? Beware these airline ticket change fees

• Pandemic-induced policy changes have fine print attached to their "free flight change."
• Major airlines have long conceded that they hope the restrictions on basic economy tickets drive passengers to buy the higher-priced regular economy tickets.
• Some travelers may be better off buying higher-priced economy tickets for more flexibility.

Airlines eliminated pricey fees to change or cancel a ticket more than a year ago and tout the newfound flexibility at every turn.

"Welcome back to travel with no change fees," American Airlines' website proclaims.

"Book your next trip now and enjoy peace of mind with no change fees," Delta tells online ticket shoppers.