Wednesday 25 September 2013

How to Become a IATA-Approved Travel Agent

The International Airline Travel Agent Network (IATAN) is a list of travel agents who work with international airlines to provide global travel to customers. Upon receiving accreditation with IATAN, travel agents will be assigned to a unique ID number to use when booking tickets and managing other travel arrangements through IATAN. All types of travel agents, whether storefront or home-based, potentially can qualify for IATAN accreditation.

Instructions

    1

    Meet all IATAN requirements. The IATAN has an extensive list of requirements that must be met before applications may begin the accreditation process. Travel agency work history and education are foremost on the list of requirements: the person applying for accreditation must have three years industry experience or one if the individual is a certified travel counselor, travel associate or travel industry executive. All applicants must pass the Certified ARC Specialist test, as given by the Airlines Reporting Corporation (ARC).

    2

    Provide a detailed financial profile of your travel agency upon submitting the application for accreditation. Bank statements, W2s and other financial paperwork must be included with the IATAN forms. The paperwork should include the company's federal tax ID number.

    3

    Obtain two letters of recommendation from industry associations. Acceptable institutions include the American Society of Travel Agents (ASTA), Meeting Professionals International (MPI), National Association of Cruise Oriented Agencies (NACOA), National Tour Association (NTA) and Society of Incentive Travel Executives (SITE).

    4

    Copy a visual image of the travel agent's contact information, whether a screen shot of the website or a copy of the telephone directory listing.

    5

    Provide a copy of the agent's liability insurance policy.

    6

    Fill out the seven-page application for accreditation. The application form will ask for detailed information about the travel agent who is requesting accreditation.

    7

    Complete the five-page professional profile. The profile form ask for specific information regarding the travel agency from which the agent works.

    8

    Submit the completed application, related forms and attached paperwork to receive IATAN accreditation.

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