There may be slightly fewer rush-hour flights -- and consequently fewer and shorter delays -- at some major airports following the Transportation Department's suggestion last month that congested airports impose surcharges on planes using the runways at the busiest times of day. The question for travelers is whether the new guidelines will also mean much higher ticket prices for those who take off or land at busy times of day.

The department's proposed "peak hour" surcharges would mainly affect flights in the early morning and early evening. The idea is that the high costs would encourage airlines to divert flights to other time slots, cutting down on delays.