PJ777,
I am so sorry to hear about what happened to you. As a very frequent flyer (and “online booker”), I have experienced the same issue in the past.
The Delta agent was correct; air fare will fluctuate drastically at the drop of a hat. As you pointed out, this can even happen DURING the booking process. You noted that the website produced a pop-up window to notify you of the event. The website has been coded to alert users of these situations—so we know that the airlines anticipate it happening from time to time.
Without doubt, the “right to make a profit” comment was unprofessional and rude. It is an infuriating situation. The agent should have explained why and how this happens. For example, another user may have successfully completed the ticketing process a moment before you when there was only one seat available at that price.
I am so sorry to hear about the incident. To answer your question: It sure does happen.
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