What is the difference between IATA accredited agent and non IATA agent?

What is the difference between IATA accredited agent and non IATA agent? IATA is considered to be one of the most basic resources for a travel agent because most airline bookings are done through the IATA portal. Non–IATA as the name suggests, non-IATA/independent travel agents are agents who are not accredited by the International Air Transport Association (IATA).

Why is it beneficial to be accredited by IATA?

IATA accreditation is globally recognized. Vendors and customers who work with an IATA travel agent know that agent meets the industry standard for trust and security. In addition, IATA agents can show their ID cards to obtain promotional benefits and concessionary incentives from participating members.

What is an IATA accredited agent?

The full IATA accreditation package is for travel businesses worldwide that support airline ticket issuing on behalf of suppliers. Additionally, the IATA agent number introduces the travel business to other IATA airline members with a single Sales Agency Agreement and provides access to IATA's BSP.

Who needs to be IATA certified?

IATA training is required for all persons who transport dangerous goods according to IATA DGR 1.5. The IATA training rules officially are recommendatory for all but aircraft operator employees. However, most air carriers require compliance with the IATA DGR as a condition of accepting your shipments.

How long is IATA certification good for?

The IATA updates its regulations every two years. Subsequently, you will need to renew your certification every two years for air shipments and every three years for ground shipments. Failing to renew your IATA certification can result in airlines rejecting your shipments or hefty fines.

What does an IATA agent do?

As a traveler, what are the advantages of using a travel agent who is accredited by IATA? IATA accredits travel and cargo agents to sell tickets on behalf of our member airlines. The accreditation process is demanding, and conditions require to meet a number of criteria, including financial liability.

Can we use Amadeus without IATA?

Welcome to this forum and thanks for joining the Amadeus family! Non-IATA agencies are allowed to book flights in Amadeus but won't be able to issue tickets. There are different solutions, such as applying for an IATA license, sharing the IATA license of a partner agency, etc.

Are all airlines members of IATA?

According to IATA, as of 2023 it represents 317 airlines, including major carriers, from over 120 countries. The IATA's member airlines account for carrying approximately 82% (2020) of total available seat miles air traffic. IATA supports airline activity and helps formulate industry policy and standards.

Do all airports have IATA?

Every official airport in the world is given a three-letter code from IATA and a four-letter code from ICAO – from one of the world's largest airports, Dammam/King Fahd International Airport (ICAO: OEDF, IATA: DMM) in Saudi Arabia, to one of the smallest, Saba/Juancho E.

What is difference between IATA and non IATA?

As the name suggests, non-IATA/independent travel agents are agents who are not accredited by the International Air Transport Association (IATA). IATA is considered to be one of the most basic resources for a travel agent because most airline bookings are done through the IATA portal.

Do travel agents charge a fee?

How much does a travel agent cost? The cost of using a travel agent is generally marginal, and often, they won't charge you at all. Much of their money comes from commissions the hotels and wholesalers pay them. Before you decide to book with a travel agent, inquire whether or not they charge fees.

How do I know if my travel agent is IATA registered?

The IATA/IATAN ID Card is the preferred means of recognition of travel professionals by the Industry. In order to assist industry suppliers in the management, distribution, and control of their industry concessions; the ID Card is often used to safely and efficiently verify a bona fide IATA travel agent via CheckACode.

Can I be a travel agent without IATA?

In order to book from IATA, the travel agent must get registered with IATA as an IATA travel agent. However, it is also possible to buy and sell tickets without getting affiliated with IATA. All travel agents who do so are known as non-IATA/independent travel agents.

How long does it take to get IATA accreditation?

How long does the process usually take? How long does the process usually take? Dependent on the category and receipt of all required documents it is possible to finalize the application within 10 business days. Some cases however require more documents be provided, thus the review may take as long as 30 days.

Is it mandatory to get IATA certification?

For businesses without IATA DGR training, airline carriers can refuse shipments and blacklist. Your business will be unable to operate without an IATA certification. The training certification proves your commitment and compliance to safety.

How do I know if a travel agent is legit?

How can I trust a travel agent?

Take advice from friends and business associates who use an agent they trust and always check business profiles on BBB.org. Visit or call several agencies to find the one that best suits your needs. Consider everything from the appearance of the office to the agent's willingness to listen and answer questions.