ASTA, the American Society of Travel Advisors, has taken a firm stance on the issue of travel agencies having to pay for air ticket refunds when they do not have the necessary funds. The Department of Transportation (DOT) recently implemented regulations that expanded the circumstances in which air passengers are entitled to ticket refunds, placing the burden on ticket agents who are the merchant of record. While the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reauthorization bill has made some strides in addressing this issue, ASTA is advocating for further amendments to ensure that agencies are never held responsible for refunds they cannot afford.
In response to the DOT’s regulations and the FAA reauthorization bill, ASTA is calling on travel advisors to rally support for an amendment proposed by Senator Rand Paul of Kentucky. The amendment aims to relieve travel agencies from the financial burden of providing ticket refunds when they lack the necessary funds. ASTA has provided an online grassroots portal for advisors to easily reach out to legislators and has even prepared a phone script for contacting lawmakers. The Society is urging advisors to personalize these scripts with their own experiences to emphasize the impact of this issue on their businesses.
The urgency of advocating for the proposed amendment to the FAA reauthorization bill is evident, as the timeline and process for amendments remain uncertain. ASTA has highlighted the importance of showing strong support for this amendment to ensure that travel agencies are not unfairly burdened with the responsibility of providing refunds they cannot afford. With final decisions on the bill and amendments resting in the hands of representatives from states such as Washington, Illinois, Kansas, Texas, and New York, ASTA is directing its call to action towards advisors in these crucial states.
The issue of travel agencies being held liable for air ticket refunds they cannot afford is a pressing concern that requires immediate attention and action. ASTA’s advocacy for the proposed amendment to the FAA reauthorization bill is a crucial step in protecting the financial stability of travel agencies across the country. By leveraging the support of travel advisors and engaging lawmakers through grassroots efforts, ASTA is working towards ensuring that agencies are not unfairly burdened by refund obligations. It is imperative for travel advisors to heed ASTA’s call to action and push for legislative changes that will safeguard the interests of the travel industry as a whole.