ASTA claimed victory on behalf of the travel agent industry regarding Northwest Airlines` announcement that it would rescind the decision to charge travel agents $7.50 roundtrip or $3.75 one-way…
ASTA claimed victory on behalf of the travel agent industry regarding Northwest Airlines` announcement that it would rescind the decision to charge travel agents $7.50 roundtrip or $3.75 one-way for bookings made in a Global Distribution System (GDS) for travel within the 50 United States. The fee was to be collected via a monthly invoice.
Northwest`s decision is a real triumph for travel agents, said Richard M. Copland, CTC, ASTA president and CEO. This victory was driven by a unified industry that came together to communicate a shared set of values and ideas. We showed that the travel agent is still a critical part of travel distribution.
We are deeply appreciative of the support we received in this battle from the Global Distribution Systems (GDS) which recognize our importance, from consumers who want to continue using our services, from our members, who told our story loud and clear to everyone who would listen, and, also to the airlines who chose not to pursue the shared fees idea. ASTA extends a heartfelt thanks to ASTA`s Corporate Advisory Council (CAC), the GDSs and the Business Travel Coalition (BTC) for working with us this past week. This success is a clear example of what a unified industry can achieve, Copland said.
Effective Sept. 2, Northwest expanded its $5 Call Center Ticketing Fee and its $10 Airport Ticket Office (ATO) fee to include international travel. Northwest announced on August 27 that it would charge fees for bookings made through its call centers and for tickets purchased at an ATO for travel within the 50 United States. These fees will be waived for WorldPerks Platinum members and for all contracted military and government fares and passengers either required to or choosing to use Northwest`s Unaccompanied Minor program.
Theodore is the Co-Founder and Managing Editor of TravelDailyNews Media Network; his responsibilities include business development and planning for TravelDailyNews long-term opportunities.
