ASTA applauds AA for Recognizing Role of Travel Agents

ASTA today praised American Airlines (AA) for recognizing the vital sales role travel agents play in the distribution of airline tickets-agents sell half of American's ticket inventory-and the corresponding costs they incur in serving travelers' needs. ASTA's move came on the heels of an announcement by the airline that it will implement non-refundable service fees of $10 and $5 respectively for tickets purchased through its personnel at airport ticket offices and U.S. reservations offices.

"This is, of course, very good news for travel agents," said ASTA President and CEO Richard M. Copland, CTC. "In its placement of service fees on tickets purchased through reservation and ticket offices, and not through travel agencies, American has shown that it appreciates the importance to consumers of being able to use a travel agent without being unjustly penalized through higher fees."

The service fees will be waived for AAdvantage Executive Platinum members and AAirpass customers. In American's own words: "This fee does not apply to the traditional travel agencies and online travel sites. These businesses charge their own fees for services they provide."