YTB Travel Network failed to win reinstatement by IATA, but it won assurances that it could continue to use its IATA numeric code as an approved ARC agency.
YTB had challenged its termination before IATA's U.S. agency commissioner, James Johnstone, who found that YTB had "lent, subcontracted to or hired to a third party" its IATA numeric code and that IATA, through its IATAN program for U.S. agents, had taken "the appropriate step to enforce its right in the code."
Johnstone cited an exhibit showing that YTB told its referring travel agents that their ARC/IATA number identified them "as an industry professional allowing you to become eligible for potential perks, preferred pricing and other courtesies."
On the other hand, the commissioner said, there was "no issue" on the matter of YTB's option to continue using the same numeric code as an ARC agency. Therefore, the commissioner said, YTB can use its ARC number, but not with any reference to IATA or IATAN, and it is no longer eligible for any IATAN products or services.
Also, YTB was directed to immediately cease using the IATA codes, to immediately recall all IDs or credentials that include the IATA code and to immediately cease using the IATA and IATAN trademarks.
YTB's attorney, Alexander Anolik, said YTB had already stopped using the IATA/IATAN trademark on referring travel agent cards and elsewhere.
To contact the reporter who wrote this article, send e-mail to Nadine Godwin at ngodwin@travelweekly.com.