Maybe in the US? Certainly not in the EU or in Switzerland. I can chose a flight based on certain criteria (i.e. no checked luggage, flexibility) and the price

Maybe in the US? Certainly not in the EU or in Switzerland. I can chose a flight based on certain criteria (i.e. no checked luggage, flexibility) and the price is stated clearly, including all fees, taxes and airport charges. The costs will be itemized on the ticket, but within the booking process the total is always clearly stated. What may happen with discount airlines (noticeably Ryan Air) is that the fleece you for a lot of "extras". From charging an arm and a leg because your hand luggage is 200gms too heavy up to charging you for printing a boarding pass at the airport.