With the Covid-19 crisis sapping
travel demand, ASTA is encouraging suppliers to make commissions available to
travel advisors at the time of booking and GDSs to suspend or waive booking
shortfall penalties.
In a message to members, ASTA president and CEO Zane Kerby said
many suppliers have already revised commission payment practices so advisors
are paid when they make a booking as opposed to at the time clients travel.
“This support to the ASTA agency community, in recognition
of the value they bring to travel distribution, is greatly appreciated during
this difficult time, and especially by those small-business members whose
livelihoods have been gravely impacted,” Kerby said.
He thanked suppliers that have made the change and
encouraged others to do the same, recognizing the importance of the
distribution channel.
Kerby also wants GDSs to suspend or waive booking shortfall
penalties.
“Without question, the further financial hardship presented
by these penalties to the loyal agency community -- so valued in the
distribution space -- at a time when the impact to booking volumes is far
beyond their normal control warrants this consideration,” Kerby said.