Canada’s new regulation requiring all-inclusive airfare advertising is not broad enough, because it won’t protect agents and consumers against “abusive” behavior from charter airlines, according to ACTA. But a major retailer disagreed, saying the rule will level the playing field for agencies and airlines.
An $180,000 fine against Travelocity is just one example of how the Department of Transportation is cracking down on violators of its airfare advertising rule enacted in January. Both small and large agencies are also being scrutinized, warns a travel industry lawyer.
Canadian vacation packagers Transat Holidays and Nolitours said they will begin paying commissions on fuel surcharges and service fees, effective Sept. 1. The move was welcomed by travel sellers, who said they hoped other tour packagers in Canada’s heated market would follow suit.
The DOT is considering new consumer rules that would require agents and tour operators to disclose airline commissions and adopt “minimum customer service standards.” ASTA is optimistic that agent-related provisions in the DOT’s latest rulemaking will not become law.
Travel sellers will have a central online resource for accessing tour operators’ agent trainings when a revamped USTOA website goes live later this year. The USTOA aims to help agents sell more land vacations, says president Terry Dale. He also urges agents to leverage USTOA’s social media promotions.
ASTA, currently searching for a CEO to replace Tony Gonchar, needs a leader who will give the organization a stronger global focus, according to past president Mike Spinelli. Serving the needs of agents on a worldwide basis would help ASTA regain its lost stature, he says.
Agents responded to news that ASTA top executive Tony Gonchar has accepted a top post at American Express with praise for his work setting the trade group on a new course, as well as for successes such as heightened media coverage of agents. ASTA’s forward motion will not be slowed, says president Nina Meyer.
Global Alliance of Travel Agent Associations, a new international agency group, plans to go directly to airlines to discuss distribution and pay. Unlike other international agency organizations, the upstart group plans to bypass IATA, ARC and GDS “middlemen.” The goal is better and faster remuneration.
A focus on business skills training will highlight the upcoming ASTA conference in Los Angeles, Sept. 7-9. Four new training tracks will offer sessions on using tech tools to better advantage, marketing strategies, legal issues and more. Certification testing and destination training are also on the agenda.
Despite Turmoil, Brand USA Expected to Stay on Track Despite the resignation of its top leaders and political attacks, Brand USA is moving forward with its Discover America promotions to travel agents in the U.K., Canada and Japan. Industry insiders say the promotions will not be derailed by the changes, and they are confident the interim CEO is up to the job.