Originally Posted by
putzin
This was discussed earlier in the year, posts 11628 & 11632 (Pages 1163/1164). Seems plausible, at least from my limited understanding of running an airline.
You werent 'charged' $18. It was withheld income tax on imputed income from a taxable benefit. Spirit was the last airline to comply with the IRS requirement. Its done that way so you know the value of the gift if you give a buddy pass to someone.