iata code travel agent

THE JOURNAL

Travel Advisor Resources

What Is an IATA Number & Why Do Travel Agents Need One?

The Modern Travel Agency

Fora travel.

https://www.foratravel.com/the-journal/iata-number

For decades, travel agencies have used an IATA number to prove their legitimacy and facilitate various types of bookings around the world. But what exactly is the relationship between an IATA number and travel advisors? Below, we break down everything you need to know, including how to obtain access to an IATA number if you’re learning how to become a travel agent .

First, what does IATA stand for?

As a prospective travel agent (a.k.a. travel advisor), you might assume IATA translates to something along the lines of the “International Association of Travel Agencies.” But the acronym actually stands for International Air Transport Association. 

What’s an IATA number then? What’s it used for?

There are variations, but most IATA numbers are made up of a unique, seven-digit combination. Originally, these numbers were exclusively used to verify air ticket distributors. This allowed early travel agencies to sell tickets on behalf of airlines. 

Over time, IATA numbers’ use grew. As hotel chains and other suppliers began expanding and adopting global distribution systems (GDS) to streamline bookings, it made more sense to use an existing identifier that was already strongly associated with the travel industry than to create an entirely new ID. Thus, the IATA number was adopted as the global standard for recognizing who booked what. 

In other words, the use of IATA numbers has facilitated standardization within the travel industry, enabling smoother transactions and better tracking of bookings across different platforms and systems. It’s used widely within the travel industry for various purposes, including booking and ticketing, to identify travel agencies in transactions, and to enable agencies to work with airlines and other travel service providers. It's an important part of the infrastructure that supports global air travel and the wider travel industry.

IATA numbers ensure legitimacy

There’s a lengthy verification process to obtain an IATA number. This process ensures that a hotel can trust that a travel agent booking is legitimate.

IATA numbers are not the same as IATA codes

If this is your first foray into the travel industry, you may be more familiar with IATA’s work than you realize. IATA codes — those three-letter tags attached to nearly every airport in the world, like LAX for Los Angeles International Airport or LGA for LaGuardia Airport in NYC — have long been the global standard for airport identification. 

Nevertheless, while IATA codes and IATA numbers are issued by the same organization, they have different uses.

Who uses an IATA number? Do you need one for your travel business?

Many jobs in the travel industry are associated with IATA numbers, as are tour operators, consolidators (including online travel agencies ), airlines, freight companies, hotels, rental car agencies and other travel industry suppliers. 

If you are a travel advisor, it’s best practice to have an IATA number to make bookings for clients. Again, the ID is part of the legal framework for proper legitimacy, tracking and payments. If you opt to work with a host agency like Fora, an IATA number will be provided to you.

Ultimately, having an IATA number is critical to be successful in the industry. Nearly all hotel groups, cruise lines, rental car companies and many other industry suppliers require an IATA number to disperse commission. 

When did travel agents start using IATA numbers?

The widespread adoption of IATA numbers as a standard, global system by travel agencies began in the late 1950s, just as the travel industry was experiencing rapid growth. 

However, the relationship between IATA and travel agencies goes back a little further. When the airline industry was taking off in the 1920s, it used travel agencies as intermediaries between travelers and the airlines, mostly to distribute tickets. This system worked, but it lacked standardization and required an airline to vet a travel agency repeatedly to ensure smooth financial transactions. 

When IATA launched in 1945, the organization quickly filled a needed role to act as a middleman between the airlines and travel agencies. Critically, airlines no longer needed to constantly reevaluate a given agency if it was IATA accredited. Since then, IATA accreditation has remained the golden standard for airlines — and now other travel companies — to determine if a travel agency is a reliable partner.

Can an independent travel agent / advisor use a host agency’s IATA number?

Absolutely. In fact, this is generally one of the most attractive prospects for working with a travel agent host agency. Obtaining an IATA number as an individual agent is fairly difficult and time-consuming. But working with an accredited host agency is generally the preferred path because your host agency covers the legal framework behind getting an IATA number. This means that as a travel advisor, you can focus more on the core projects related to your role (planning and booking travel).

When you sign up to become a Fora Advisor , you’ll get access to our IATA number so that you can make travel bookings. 

4 benefits of having an IATA number

Here’s a recap of the benefits of having an IATA number.

1. Proves an agency’s qualifications & credibility

First and perhaps most importantly, an IATA number guarantees that a travel agency has been evaluated as a reliable partner for industry suppliers. Without this ID, suppliers — including hotels, cruises and so on — have zero reason to recognize a travel agency’s bookings and are not bound to offer a commission for the agency’s services.

2. Allows an agency to access global booking systems

Beyond establishing an agency’s credibility, an IATA number also grants access to global distribution systems (hotel reservation platforms). If your agency lacks an IATA number, you won’t be able to access these systems to make bookings for clients. 

At Fora, you’ll be able to see all of these rates directly in our booking platform . 

3. Ensures easy dispersal of commissions

Like any form of ID, an IATA number makes the process of paying commissions much smoother. It tells a supplier exactly whom should be paid for making a reservation. 

(P.S. If you’re curious about how travel agent commissions work, check out our guide.)

4. Proves industry regulator compliance

There’s a lot of legal work that goes into obtaining and keeping an IATA number. IATA numbers can be stripped from agencies that work outside of the confines of internationally recognized policies (this ensures the ability to protect a client’s data or secure financial transactions). Working with a host agency that has one means that you’re aligned with an organization that abides by industry protocol.

Of course, each host agency has its own policies, pros and cons, so there is more to consider beyond IATA accreditation.

Become a Fora Advisor and access our IATA number

Ready to start selling travel with an IATA number-wielding host travel agency? Apply to become a Fora Advisor today. 

More IATA number FAQs

Have more questions about IATA numbers and travel agencies? Here are a few FAQ answers.

Recap: do you absolutely need an IATA number to be a travel agent?

To truly maximize your travel business, it is indeed important to have access to an IATA number — whether as an individual agent or through a partnership with a host agency. Otherwise, your travel business will largely be limited to planning itineraries (without bookings). That’s a huge disadvantage, as potential clients will likely seek out travel agents who can plan and book their trips. 

How do you get your own IATA number?

When you work with a host agency, you will have access to their IATA number. This is the path that most independent travel advisors take. At Fora, we provide you with access to our IATA number. 

If you want your own IATA number, you’ll have to apply and prove financial stability, professional competence and the ability to adhere to industry standards. It’s worth noting that it is a very time-intensive process and most independent travel advisors do not take this route.

Are there alternatives to IATA numbers / accreditation?

Technically, yes. But in practice, not really. While other systems exist, they tend to be regional or less widely recognized. Whether you’re looking to book global or domestic travel only, having an IATA number is ideal.

Are there any potential challenges to obtaining an IATA number?

As an independent travel advisor, not particularly. It basically comes down to whether you’re able to find a viable host agency to work with, such as Fora.

As a host agency, it is a time-intensive and paperwork-heavy process. Host agencies apply, and have to prove legitimacy. Potential challenges include financial instability, a lack of operational infrastructure, an inability to comply with industry standards or a failed background check at the agency management level.

Additional resources about becoming a travel advisor

Hear a few of the reasons to become a Fora Advisor from our travel advisors. Or, check out the guides below for more travel advisor resources:

5 Types of Bookings You Can Make as a Fora Advisor (That Aren’t Hotels!)  

Debunking 3 Myths about Becoming a Travel Advisor  

Why Group Bookings Are Great: Tips from an Expert  

How to Become a Cruise Travel Agent (It's Easier Than You Think)  

How Do Travel Agents Get Clients? Fora's Top 5 Tips  

Is Being a Travel Agent Worth It? Fora Discusses the Pros & Cons  

What Does It Take to Become a Travel Agent?  

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

We empower anyone with a passion for travel to transform it into meaningful revenue. Sign up to become a travel advisor today.

@2024 Voyage Labs . All Rights Reserved.

How to get IATA Accreditation For Travel Agencies

Key takeaways.

• Globally recognized, IATA accreditation transforms travel agencies, ensuring industry credibility and opening doors for global expansion.
• Whether full or partial, IATA numbers offer exclusive benefits, credibility, and streamlined financial processes for travel agencies engaged in international air travel services.
• Travel agencies can thrive by exploring alternatives like collaborating with non-IATA airlines or obtaining specialized certifications, providing flexibility and customization in the competitive travel industry.

Within the dynamic landscape of the travel industry, the impact of IATA accreditation emerges as a guiding light for travel agencies seeking a redefined and elevated presence. Envision a scenario where your travel agency not only exists within conventional boundaries but flourishes globally. This commitment is inherent in IATA accreditation—an assurance of transformative possibilities.

Consider the potential as we extend an invitation to commence a journey that transcends the ordinary. It begins with a fundamental step: securing your IATA accreditation. The platform is prepared, the proverbial curtain lifts and the focus turns to you. Beyond a mere accreditation, this is an opportunity to recalibrate your agency's trajectory, and the expedition initiates now.

• What is IATA? What is IATAN?

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) is a trade association that has played a significant role in the travel industry since its inception in 1945. IATA serves as a unifying force for airlines across the globe by encouraging cooperation and standardization to ensure the seamless functioning of international air travel. Its primary functions include establishing industry standards, facilitating airline cooperation, and advocating for policies that enhance the aviation sector.

IATAN, also known as the International Airlines Travel Agent Network, operates as a department within IATA with the specific purpose of accrediting and identifying travel professionals. Acknowledging the indispensable role of travel agents in the industry, IATAN accreditation symbolizes excellence and professionalism. It functions as a trusted emblem, signifying that the accredited agent adheres to rigorous industry standards and is a reputable participant in the travel ecosystem.

The affiliation with IATA and IATAN holds substantial value for travel agencies. Through its endeavors in setting standards and fostering collaboration, IATA ensures a consistent and efficient global air travel experience. For travel professionals, securing IATAN accreditation signifies a dedication to professionalism and adherence to elevated industry standards.

The significance of industry association extends beyond recognition, encompassing access to a network of resources, timely industry updates, and exclusive opportunities. Travel agencies aligned with IATA and IATAN gain a competitive advantage, instilling confidence in clients and partners.

In the swiftly evolving landscape of the industry, this association becomes a foundational element for success, empowering travel professionals to navigate the intricate dynamics of international travel with credibility and expertise.

• What is an IATA number?

An International Air Transport Association (IATA) number is a unique identification code issued by the IATA to individuals and companies in the travel industry. This credential is crucial for travel agencies engaged in international air travel services, as it serves as a gateway to numerous benefits and opportunities within the aviation sector. Having an IATA number can help travel agencies establish credibility, gain access to exclusive discounts and promotions, and provide better service to their customers.

There are two primary categories of agency IATA numbers: full and partial. A full IATA number empowers an agency to issue airline tickets on behalf of authorized airlines, subject to strict criteria for acquisition. Conversely, a partial IATA number, often known as a Travel Industry Designator Service (TIDS) number, offers a unique account identifier but lacks the authority to issue airline tickets.

It is beneficial for tasks such as identifying with hotel and car rental companies and streamlining commission payments to the agency. Acquiring a partial IATA number involves a straightforward process, usually requiring completing a simple form.

Moreover, alternative licenses, such as IATAN, offer varying authorization and benefits, with additional information on the official IATA website.

The need for obtaining an IATA number becomes evident when contemplating the issuance of airline tickets. While certain airlines, notably low-cost carriers , may not participate in IATA, a significant majority—over 84% of the world's airlines—operate within its framework.

Alternatives, such as engaging consolidators or airline portals, come with drawbacks, including additional fees and the absence of a centralized system for shopping and ticketing.

The agency's IATA number is pivotal in fund distribution between the agency and the airlines. Operating akin to an account number, it facilitates the allocation of funds to entities involved in the ticketing process, encompassing airlines and airports for taxes.

The IATA number is essential to refund and voiding processes for airline tickets and is prominently featured on all agency-issued tickets. Financial reporting for each airline is structured based on the agency's IATA numbers.

Agencies possess the flexibility to hold multiple IATA numbers, commonly utilized to segregate financial reporting per ticketing location and mandated for offices established in various countries. This comprehensive process places responsibility on the agency for the values of issued tickets until the associated payments are cleared.

Especially in cash transactions, IATA mandates a financial bond, calculated based on the ratio of cash versus credit card ticket sales, held in escrow throughout the agency's licensure period. This financial measure ensures agencies maintain a secure financial position to fulfill their liabilities in the ticketing process.

• What is an IATAN number?

An IATAN number, constituting an 8-digit IATA Code integral to the IATAN Accreditation process, represents the pinnacle of validation for travel agencies. Recognized universally within the industry, this distinctive identifier is acknowledged as the standard for identification by a spectrum of suppliers, including hotel and resort chains, cruise lines, car rental companies, theme parks, and rail companies.

It serves to simplify the intricate processes of reservations, sales activities, and commission distribution within the dynamic landscape of the travel industry.

The attainment of IATAN Accreditation bestows upon travel agencies an array of advantages, encompassing:

International Professional Status- The certification of the agency's professional standing on a global scale.

Inclusion on IATA CheckACode and the IATA Agency List- Assuring visibility and validation by industry suppliers.

Streamlined Booking Processes- Effortlessly facilitating reservations for hotels, cars, flights, and various travel services for clients.

Increased Opportunities for Incentives and Commissions- Augmenting the likelihood of securing incentives and commissions from industry partners.

ID Card for Eligible Staff- Endowing eligible agency staff access to the prestigious IATA/IATAN ID Card, a notable professional credential in the industry.

IATAN, one of the most esteemed professional organizations in the United States, rigorously evaluates accredited agencies, ensuring unwavering adherence to its exacting standards and requirements.

The significance of IATAN Accreditation is underscored by the fact that numerous industry suppliers explicitly mandate this accreditation for agency partnerships.

The benefits of IATAN Accreditation extend beyond the agency to its team members, who are eligible to apply for an IATA/IATAN ID Card. This credential unlocks access to exceptional travel benefits and continuous discounts and facilitates ongoing professional training, empowering the team and broadening the agency's influence.

Accreditation is accessible to a diverse spectrum of U.S. travel professionals, including store-front, home-based, or online travel agents/advisors, independent, partnership, or corporate businesses, ticketing or non-ticketing travel agents/advisors, meeting planners, event organizers, site selectors, independent travel consultants of a host agency, and corporate travel departments & corporate client locations.

Application Process for IATAN Number

Initiating the application process for an IATAN number requires careful attention to specific documents and procedures. Firstly, obtaining ARC (Airline Reporting Corporation) Approval is crucial, especially in the USA, where all payment transactions related to ticketing are processed through ARC. Adhering to the provided guidelines is essential to acquire ARC accreditation successfully.

Simultaneously, providing conclusive proof of a current business license is imperative. This document should display the entity's legal name and confirm the business's "active" or "in good standing" status with the relevant state, county, or city.

Applicants must present verifiable proof of ownership and the legal form of the business corporation. It is essential to recognize that different states of rights require distinct business licenses and agreements; detailed information is available in the accreditation package.

Including documented evidence of Seller of Travel Registration for specific states, notably California, Florida, Hawaii, Iowa, and Washington, is necessary in the application process.

Substantiated proof of two years of experience for QMP/QTA (Managerial Qualifier and Ticketing Qualifier) is another crucial aspect. This involves providing documented evidence of travel activity experience, such as letters of recommendation or certifications from prior employers, partners, or esteemed travel industry suppliers.

To proceed, download the documents required for the application. After completing the necessary papers and ensuring they are duly notarized, including proofs of business activities, the submission should be sent directly to the designated IATAN submission email.

Upon receiving and processing all application documents by IATAN, the final step involves online payment of registration fees. The accreditation costs $247 for a head office or branch and $410 for a corporate travel department, with annual service fees of $103 and $184, respectively. Detailed instructions on registration fees will be communicated via email, with an average application consideration period of approximately 30 days.

• IATA Vs IATAN Accreditation

IATA and the IATAN play crucial roles in the travel industry, each serving distinct purposes. IATA, a global airline trade association, focuses on accrediting airlines worldwide to ensure compliance with industry standards. This accreditation empowers travel agencies to handle airline ticketing directly, streamlining processes and bolstering credibility.

Conversely, IATAN operates within IATA and caters explicitly to US-based travel agencies, offering similar accreditation options tailored to the US market. Both accreditations enhance agency credibility, fostering strong relationships with airlines and hotels. The application processes for IATA and IATAN are comparable, necessitating documentation of general business operations, qualifications, and financial viability.

IATA accreditation comprises three levels with varying capabilities and fees. The evaluation process typically takes approximately two weeks. Costs encompass application fees ranging from 250 CHF (~$280) to 2500 CHF (~$2800), along with annual fees based on gross annual sales through the Billing and Settlement Plan (BSP). IATAN accreditation likely follows a comparable cost structure.

Comprehending the distinctions between IATA and IATAN accreditation aids travel professionals in choosing the accreditation that aligns with their geographical focus, business model, and specific requirements. Both accreditations offer global recognition, streamline processes, and enhance industry credibility.

IATA and IATAN, are pivotal entities within the travel industry, each serving distinct purposes with specific focuses.

• Types of IATA Accreditation For Travel Agencies

IATA accreditation offers various types tailored to different needs within the travel industry. Each accreditation type requires specific steps for certification. Below, we outline the key accreditation types, the steps involved, and recommendations for their suitability based on agency types.

GoLite represents a more limited accreditation model ideal for travel agencies that exclusively engage in non-cash transactions, relying on IATA EasyPay and card payments. This streamlined accreditation option is designed to simplify the process for agencies with minimal financial requirements.

Steps for Certification

• Complete the IATA application for GoLite accreditation.
• Provide basic agency information and business details.
• Confirm compliance with IATA standards for small agencies.
• Apply for review.
• Upon approval, agencies receive GoLite accreditation.

Recommendations

• Ideal for small travel agencies.
• It is suited for agencies not issuing a large volume of airline tickets.
• No financial requirements make it accessible for startups and small businesses.

GoStandard is the default accreditation type, offering travel agencies access to various payment methods. This model provides flexibility in financial transactions, accommodating different payment preferences within the industry.

• Fulfill the IATA application for GoStandard accreditation.
• Demonstrate the agency's capacity to issue a significant number of airline tickets.
• Meet specified financial requirements set by IATA.
• Choose between giving tickets through IATA BSP or directly with airlines.
• Submit the application and financial documentation for evaluation.
• Upon approval, agencies are granted GoStandard accreditation.
• Suitable for larger travel agencies with a high ticket issuance volume.
• Financial requirements may pose a challenge for startups or smaller agencies.
• It Offers flexibility in ticket issuance through IATA BSP or direct channels.

GoGlobal is a specialized accreditation model tailored for travel agencies with a global presence, operating in multiple countries and several Billing and Settlement Plans (BSPs). Agencies opting for GoGlobal must adhere to a unified international set of requirements, accrediting all their locations under a single agreement. This ensures a standardized approach to accreditation across diverse geographical areas.

• Complete the IATA application for GoGlobal accreditation.
• Showcase the agency's international operations and presence in multiple countries.
• Meet the highest financial requirements stipulated by IATA.
• Opt for ticket issuance through IATA BSP or directly with airlines.
• Submit comprehensive financial documentation and proof of global operations.
• After a thorough evaluation, agencies attain GoGlobal accreditation.
• Tailored for travel agencies with a global footprint.
• Geared towards agencies operating in multiple countries.
• Requires substantial financial stability due to the highest financial requirements.
• Benefits of IATA Accreditation for Travel Agencies

Efficient Ticketing Process

IATA accreditation streamlines the airline ticket issuance process by leveraging the IATA Billing and Settlement Plan (BSP). This accreditation ensures a seamless workflow and contributes to significant cost reductions.

Key Advantages

IATA accreditation empowers travel agencies with a simplified and efficient mechanism for issuing airline tickets. Agencies can navigate the ticketing process seamlessly by adhering to the standards set by the IATA BSP.

In addition to streamlining processes, IATA accreditation through the BSP framework enhances the financial efficiency of transactions. This results in cost-effective operations, benefitting the agency and, ultimately, the end consumer.

The efficient ticketing process achieved through IATA accreditation translates into operational excellence and financial savings for travel agencies, marking a pivotal advantage in the competitive travel industry.

Access to Exclusive IATA Products and Services

IATA-accredited travel agencies benefit from privileged access to a range of services provided by IATA, including Timatic travel information and the IATA Travel Centre. This access enhances the agency's reservoir of travel information while also giving entry to specialized services tailored to the unique requirements of accredited agencies.

IATA accreditation provides agencies comprehensive access to travel-related information, leveraging tools like Timatic. This extensive resource improves the agency's capacity to deliver precise and timely information to clients, enhancing travel decision-making quality.

In addition to general travel information, accredited agencies gain admission to specialized services crafted by IATA to meet the distinctive needs and challenges encountered in the travel industry. These services offer a significant competitive advantage, empowering agencies to navigate the complexities of the market more effectively.

Access to exclusive IATA products and services enriches information reservoirs and equips travel agencies with specialized instruments, positioning them for success in a dynamic and competitive market.

Engagement in IATA Training Programs and Events

Travel agencies accredited by IATA gain valuable access to extensive training programs and events, fostering continuous learning and providing ongoing opportunities for professional development. This involvement ensures that the agency's staff remains updated on the latest products, trends, and regulations within the dynamic landscape of the travel industry.

IATA-accredited agencies leverage the wealth of industry knowledge IATA's training programs provide. This access guarantees that agency staff stays well-informed about the latest industry dynamics, enabling them to provide clients with accurate and relevant information.

Active participation in IATA training programs establishes pathways for professional growth. Agencies can enhance the skills and expertise of their staff, positioning themselves as industry leaders and gaining a competitive edge in delivering high-quality services to clients.

The involvement of accredited agencies in IATA's training programs and events goes beyond skill development, offering a continuous learning avenue for advancement in the ever-evolving travel industry.

Usage of the IATA Logo

Accredited travel agencies enjoy displaying the IATA logo prominently, which fosters customer confidence by indicating professionalism and strict adherence to industry standards. This logo is a visible endorsement of the agency's dedication to excellence, serving as a robust assurance to clients.

Utilizing the IATA logo signifies a commitment to industry best practices and standards, cultivating customer trust. It assures clients that the agency operates at a level of excellence endorsed by the globally recognized IATA.

The display of the IATA logo elevates the agency's credibility in clients' eyes, signaling that the agency has met rigorous accreditation requirements. This reinforcement solidifies the agency's position as a reputable and trustworthy player in the competitive travel market.

The incorporation of the IATA logo transcends mere visual representation; it serves as a potent tool for building trust and bolstering the overall credibility of accredited travel agencies.

• Alternatives to IATA Accreditation

In the dynamic realm of the travel industry, agencies are encouraged to explore alternative pathways to the conventional IATA accreditation, offering adaptability and customization to specific requirements.

Collaboration with Non-IATA Airlines

Engaging in collaborative relationships with airlines beyond the IATA network emerges as a strategic alternative. While IATA accreditation follows standardized frameworks, aligning with non-IATA airlines allows agencies to structure collaborations according to their unique needs. This strategy widens the range of available carriers, offering diverse partnership options that resonate with the agency's distinct business model and cater to specific client preferences.

Collaborating with the remaining 16%, which includes well-known carriers such as Emirates, Southwest, and Ryanair, provides travel agencies with distinctive collaboration opportunities.

Collaborative models with non-IATA airlines offer distinct customization opportunities, empowering agencies to tailor partnerships to their specific requirements. This flexibility fosters the creation of bespoke and mutually beneficial arrangements.

Accessing a comprehensive network is a notable advantage of collaborating with non-IATA airlines. Agencies can leverage a more extensive network of carriers, proving particularly advantageous when catering to niche markets or specific routes that may need to be comprehensively covered by IATA-affiliated airlines.

Engaging with non-IATA airlines presents specific challenges for travel agencies to assess carefully. One significant drawback is the potential need for industry standardization, contrasting with the structured processes of IATA.

This absence of a universally recognized framework may introduce operational complexities, demanding agencies to navigate through diverse and potentially inconsistent procedures.

Another essential aspect to consider is the variability in service quality among non-IATA airlines. These carriers may adhere to different service standards, necessitating agencies to skillfully manage and adapt to varying service levels.

Addressing these diversities requires heightened flexibility and responsiveness from travel agencies, ensuring a consistent and satisfactory experience for their clients.

Specialized Certifications for Niche Markets

Another viable alternative is the pursuit of specialized certifications tailored to niche markets. Departing from the broad standards IATA sets, agencies can obtain certificates that cater to unique travel preferences or specialized segments within the industry. This strategic approach empowers agencies to discover a distinctive niche in specialized markets.

Examples of specialized certifications include:

• Adventure Travel Specialist Certification
• Luxury Travel Advisor Certification
• Sustainable Tourism Certification

Specialized certifications empower agencies to focus on specific travel preferences or segments, enhancing their ability to meet the distinctive needs of particular clientele. This targeted approach contributes to heightened client satisfaction and loyalty.

Obtaining certifications for niche markets enables agencies to showcase expertise in particular areas, appealing to travelers with specific preferences and establishing the agency as a recognized authority in those specialized markets.

When contemplating specialized certifications, travel agencies should be mindful of certain drawbacks. One significant concern is the limited generalization that comes with these certifications. While they empower agencies to focus on specific travel preferences or segments, this specialization may narrow their scope in broader markets, potentially excluding clients with diverse tastes.

Striking a balance between discipline and catering to a diverse clientele becomes crucial to ensure sustained business growth.

Another important consideration is the cost associated with pursuing multiple specialized certifications. While these certifications enhance expertise in specific areas, agencies must weigh the financial implications.

Pursuing numerous certifications can incur additional costs, impacting the agency's budget. Careful financial planning is essential to manage certification expenses effectively and assess the return on investment in terms of enhanced market positioning and client satisfaction.

Contemplating alternatives to conventional IATA accreditation allows travel agencies to adapt to the industry's evolving dynamics. Whether collaborating with non-IATA airlines or obtaining specialized certifications, these alternatives give agencies the adaptability to tailor their strategies, potentially leading to increased business opportunities and heightened client satisfaction.

In the complex terrain of the travel industry, exploring alternatives to traditional IATA accreditation emerges as a strategic choice for agencies aiming for adaptability and tailored solutions. Whether establishing partnerships with non-IATA airlines or pursuing specialized certifications for niche markets, these alternative paths create avenues for expanded business prospects and enhanced client satisfaction.

Voyage Labs is poised to assist travel agencies throughout this transformative journey, providing cutting-edge solutions and expert counsel to elevate their standing in the dynamic global travel landscape. Delve into the possibilities with Voyage Labs and reshape your agency's trajectory in the ever-evolving travel industry.

Samuel Corso

Samuel Corso is a software engineer and entrepeneur with deep expertise in systems integrations and reverse-engineering APIs, dating back to his time building commercial ecommerce bots. He's the author of the number one open source project of this kind on GitHub. He also bears unique knowledge of the software infrastructure behind the travel industry. He founded Voyage Labs to help companies unlock cutting-edge software solutions to meet the needs of their customers.

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Table of contents.

Travel Agency Accreditation, Explained: IATA, IATAN, ARC, CLIA, and TRUE

• 14 min read
• 29 May, 2023
• No comments Share

What is travel agency accreditation? Why do you need it?

• IATA accreditation for selling air travel worldwide
• ARC accreditation for selling air travel in the US
• CLIA accreditation for cruise booking
• TRUE accreditation for cruise and tours booking

IATA accreditation for air travel: IATA vs IATAN vs TIDS

• full IATA accreditation – a standard approach for international businesses that want to support ticketing and
• a TIDS (travel industry designator services) code – a non-ticketing IATA accreditation. A TIDS code is simply an identification that helps your supplier network grow. It’s also used to grant commissions.
• IATAN accreditation – the same as the full IATA accreditation but for US businesses only and
• IATAN non-ticketing accreditation that provides the same opportunities a TIDS code does.

Overview of IATA accreditation options

Full IATA accreditation

• proof of general business operations,
• proof of your qualifications,
• confirmation of travel agent experience,
• proof of financial viability.
• Register at the Customer Portal .
• Submit the application form with required documents.
• Pay the registration fee.

TIDS accreditation

• confirmation of business ownership,
• copy of business registration,
• bank statement,
• one letter of recommendation from an IATA Airline, GDS, or other major industry supplier,
• travel agency license,
• signed copy of the TIDS Terms and Conditions .
• Select TIDS.
• Submit your application for review.

Full IATAN accreditation

• IATAN is used only for US-based travel businesses with over 2 years of experience and
• in the US, all payment transactions are processed not in BSP, but via the Airline Reporting Corporation (ARC) .
• ARC approval,
• business license,
• proof of ownership,
• proof of Seller of Travel Registration for states of California, Florida, Hawaii, Iowa, and Washington,
• proof of two years of experience.
• Fill out the required forms ( click to download .zip file ).
• Submit the documents and forms at [email protected].
• Pay registration fees.

Non-ticketing IATAN accreditation

Arc accreditation for airline booking in the us.

• ARC-Accredited Agency – the most complete option that enables ticketing for you.
• Verified Travel Consultant (VLC) – the same but without ticketing capabilities.
• Corporate Travel Department (CTD) – option for businesses not in the travel industry.

ARC-Accredited Agency for issuing flight tickets

• confirmation of an established bank account with ARC,
• a bond or a bank statement for $20,000.
• Designate an ARC Specialist in your office who must pass the certification.
• Complete the application form .
• Pay the fee and submit your application form with required documents.
• Pass an interview.

Verified Travel Consultant for non-ticketing agents

• Review the VTC Agreement and Handbook .
• Fill the application form .
• Pay an application fee.

Corporate Travel Department for non-travel businesses

• an IRS Employer Identification Number (EIN).
• Assign an ARC Specialist Qualifier and a Manager Qualifier (they can be the same person).
• Meet the ticketing security standards.
• Submit the form, payment, and the required documents.

CLIA credentials for cruise booking

Travel Agency Membership (TAM)

• Special commissions and discounts – in your membership welcome package, you get a coupon booklet for special commissions, and the program itself provides bonus commissions, special discounts, as well as discounts on office supplies and technology.
• Members-only information – access to special webinars, news digests, and other latest information on the cruise industry.
• Promotion – a listing on CLIA’s Agent Finder platform, where vacationers can find your agency by postal code, promoting you as a credible professional.
• Ability to join CLIA as Individual Agent Members – Only agents affiliated with CLIA’s TAM can get an Individual Agent Membership, which comes with its own set of benefits. We will cover this option below.

Individual Agent Membership (IAM)

Ccra true accreditation for niche travel booking.

• proof that you’re a sole proprietor,
• proof that you’re meeting your state’s requirements as a seller of travel,
• proof that you have at least 6 months of travel selling experience,
• 3 business references,
• proof of an active bank account in good standing.
• Submit a form and payment.

Accreditation overview: IATA vs ARC vs CLIA vs TRUE

• full IATA accreditation (if you’re outside of the US),
• full IATAN accreditation (if you’re in the US),
• ARC Accredited Agency (if you’re in the US).
• TIDS (if you’re outside of the US),
• IATAN non-ticketing (if you’re in the US),
• ARC Verified Travel Consultant (if you’re in the US).
• IATAN non-ticketing,
• ARC Corporate Travel Department.

Vnukovo International Airport

Moscow Vnukovo Airport

• Website: Moscow Vnukovo Airport

Contact Details

• Phone: +7 495 937 5555

The airport is 28 km (17 miles) southwest of central Moscow.

Airport Codes

Vko airport menu, world airports.

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• United States
• Central America
• Middle East
• North America
• South America
• South Pacific

International Airlines

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