DOT rejects ASTA filings. (Travel Agents).(Brief Article)

Travel Agent, September, 2002

The DOT dismissed ASTA's complaint filed nearly three years ago against several airlines for dropping commissions, as well as the Society's complaint filed last March against eight airlines and Orbitz. The DOT said it found no evidence that the airlines colluded to reduce commission payments, or that they conspired to raise travel agencies' costs for the purpose of weakening their relationships with consumers.

It also said there was no evidence to support the claim that airlines colluded with Orbitz to eliminate commissions and to prevent their low Internet fares from becoming available for sale through a GDS. The DOT said many of ASTA's concerns will be addressed in the GDS rulemaking proceeding.