WWW,
I can't see how you claim flying in the US is subtly different, if you went there you would see that there are a number of services, WX-BRIEF being just one, that allow an aviator to go about his business not just a damn sight more easily but also a lot cheaper!
A £17 charge is a good example, I have yet to find an example (even flying IFR), in the US where someone has asked me for my credit card details before they will even speak to me!!!!
Can you please tell me how often you have flown Stateside and when the last time was as so far the only subtle diffence I detect is the signature on the bottom of the debit slip.
If you want further proof I make good use of shooting the ILS into US airports when there - and its all free! I hear Luton charge £22 even if you go missed!!! DOH!
Best regards,. .Julian.