Virtuoso is reimbursing its members for taking ASTA's 2015 Travel Agency Regulatory Compliance Course, which includes an instructional video, regulatory handbook and 40-question test concerning major federal statutes and DOT regulations to ensure consumers are given correct information and agency owners avoid stiff penalties.
ALEXANDRIA, VA – The American Society of Travel Agents (ASTA) announce that Virtuoso, the leading global network of luxury travel advisors and suppliers, is investing up to $10,000 to ensure its U.S.-based advisors are as up-to-date as possible on important government regulations impacting their profession. Virtuoso is reimbursing its members for taking ASTA’s 2015 Travel Agency Regulatory Compliance Course, which includes an instructional video, regulatory handbook and 40-question test concerning major federal statutes and Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations to ensure consumers are given correct information and agency owners avoid stiff penalties.
“Today’s travel advisor needs to be knowledgeable on all aspects of the industry, including complex DOT regulations, to ensure they’re in compliance with pricing and advertising rules,” says Virtuoso Chairman and CEO Matthew D. Upchurch. “More importantly, though, is the need to educate the traveling public on their rights, and we strongly feel that by participating in ASTA’s Regulatory Compliance Course Virtuoso advisors will be able to better guide their clients toward making informed choices.“
“This course is critical in keeping agents and agency owners from incurring DOT penalties that have ranged from $10,000 to $180,000,” said ASTA President and CEO Zane Kerby. “ASTA members such as Virtuoso are stepping up to the plate and recognizing the value of this new compliance course for their network members.“
While Virtuoso was able to secure a discounted rate, the course is available to all ASTA members on ASTA.org/training for $25, and to all non-members for $150 until July 31 (regular price is $225). The course, which gives travel agents two chances to pass and be certified as compliant, covers everything they need to know on regulations such as baggage fees, airline code shares and hazardous materials disclosure rules, advertising and pricing rules and insecticide spraying on aircraft rules.
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