YTB Travel Network won assurances that the company can continue to use its IATA numeric code as an ARC-approved agency, but it did not win reinstatement at IATA.
YTB had challenged IATA's termination of the agency before IATA's agency commissioner for the U.S. The commissioner, James Johnstone, found that YTB had "lent, subcontracted to or hired to a third party" its IATA numeric code and that IATA had taken "the appropriate step to enforce its right in the code."
Johnstone cited an IATA exhibit in which YTB told its referring travel agents (RTAs) 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. He cited an IATA memorandum issued on April 10, which stated IATA was not claiming that its termination of YTB's accreditation "results in any impairment with respect to its ARC accreditation."
Therefore, YTB can use its ARC number but not with any reference to IATA, and the agency is no longer eligible for any IATA products or services, said the commissioner.
Also, YTB was directed to immediately cease using the IATA codes, including in connection with any ID or other credentials, and to immediately recall all IDs or credentials that include the IATA code. YTB also was directed to immediately cease using the IATA trademark.
YTB's attorney, Al Anolik, said YTB had already ceased using the IATA trademark on RTA cards and elsewhere.
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