What About Airfare?

Booking airfare for clients is often one of the more complex aspects of being a travel agent, and it’s important to set clear expectations. As independent contractors, it is up to you to decide whether to book flights on behalf of your clients or guide them to book directly with airlines for greater flexibility and control. Below is some suggested language you can use or adapt when discussing airfare with your clients. Please have your legal or professional advisors review it to ensure it aligns with your specific terms and conditions.

Example Language: 

What About Airfare?

For flexibility and better pricing, we recommend clients book airfare directly with the airlines giving the client control over travel plans, direct airline support, and frequent flyer perks.

I am more than happy to assist you in finding flights that meet your needs. However, to provide you with the best possible experience and greater flexibility, we typically recommend that clients book their airfare directly with their preferred airline. Here are the reasons why it’s beneficial for our clients to book their own airfare:

• Dynamic Pricing of Airlines
  Airline fares can fluctuate frequently and significantly. By booking independently, you can take advantage of promotions, last-minute deals, or discounts, ensuring you get the best option available.

• Direct Communication with Airlines
  In the event of flight changes, delays, or cancellations, booking directly with the airline allows you to resolve issues more quickly and with fewer complications, as airlines typically prioritize direct bookings for customer support.

• Control Over Travel Plans
  When you book your own flights, you maintain full control over your travel arrangements, including seat selection, baggage options, upgrades, and other services. This flexibility allows you to modify or cancel flights as needed without going through a third party, including us as your travel agent.

• Transparent Pricing
  Booking directly with the airline ensures that you can see the full cost of your airfare without any additional fees or service charges that may come with third-party bookings. This provides clarity on what you are paying for.

• Frequent Flyer Benefits
  Many travelers are loyal to specific airlines and prefer to use frequent flyer miles, earn points, or access other membership perks. Booking directly with the airline allows you to maximize these benefits, which may not be as easily accessible when booking through a third party. If you'd like suggestions on the best travel credit cards, we’d be happy to provide guidance, as we have extensive experience maximizing these benefits for “free” flights.

My primary mission is to make your travel experience seamless and hassle-free. By managing your own airfare, you gain added control and flexibility, which perfectly complements the unique, carefully curated destinations we offer.

If You Still Want Help Booking Airfare:

We are happy to book airfare on a case-by-case basis upon request.  Please note, even if we book your airfare some airlines will still require you to directly purchase add-ons (vary by airline) such as: seat selection, luggage fees and more. 

Flight Booking Fees:

• $30 per domestic flight per person, per booking (includes USA, Canada, Caribbean, and Mexico).

• $60 per international flight per person, per booking.

Note: The fee will be waived if airfare is part of a vacation package with a promotional price.