Travel agents serve as a link between clients and their dream vacations. A popular misconception is that booking airfares doesn’t benefit the agent. Some advisors believe this myth because of the perceived lack of compensation and commission in airfare, as well as the fear of making mistakes.
While clients can secure their own flights, it’s the travel agent that secures the best deals and benefits. In this article, Sky Bird Travel & Tours explains the importance of travel agents making airfare bookings for their clients.
Why Should Travel Agents Book Airfare for Clients?
Agents Can Earn the Commission They Deserve
When travel agents book airfares, they earn the commission. This commission reflects the hard work and effort that goes into making bookings!
Sky Bird’s WINGS Booking Platform uses three Global Distribution Systems (GDS) to access discounted airfares that are not available to the independent traveler. Agents can adjust their commission by quoting flight ticket prices slightly above the original cost, while still keeping the price lower than online rates. This ensures that clients see the fares as discounted compared to online rates, which enhances their trust in the agent’s ability to secure the best deals.
Agents Can Offer Complete Travel Packages
When agents book airfares, they transform into a complete package that can offer solutions for any travel-related request. This approach not only includes reserving flights, but also hotels, activities, tours, transfers, transportation, and so much more.
Travel agents can also tap into the VFR (Visiting Friends and Relatives) Market. Because these clients already have accommodations, it primarily requires airfares. By catering to this market, agents can increase their revenue and open themselves up to new clientele.
Successfully helping a client with their flight arrangements positions advisors as a trusted partner for any travel request. Clients appreciate the convenience offered by travel agents which leads to long-term relationships and referrals.
Agents Can Improve Customer Relationships
Customers often turn to online travel websites for vacation bookings. However, the number of options can overwhelm them and lead to confusion. Clients can book the wrong flight, mistake departure/arrival times, choose a cheaper option without noticing hidden fees, and so much more.
For travel agents, booking airfares is routine. They know important information about navigating airlines, extra charges, specific lingo, etc. Additionally, advisors have both access to special customer support lines and dedicated time for resolving issues with ticketing.
By guiding clients through the process of flight bookings, agents not only ensure that clients secure the most cost-effective options but also demonstrate their commitment to providing a stress-free travel experience. This method not only enhances customer satisfaction but also fosters stronger bonds and trust between agents and their clients.
How To Book Airfares For Clients With WINGS
Register for Sky Bird’s WINGS Booking Platform to gain access to exclusive airfare deals from over 90 airlines – plus, it’s free!
To begin booking, travel agents can input the desired destination, and then select the desired arrival/departure dates, number of travelers, and flight class. Using WINGS, agents can filter flight options based on their client’s budget, journey time, and preferred airline. Once all parameters are set, agents can get access to an extensive network of competitive fares and an array of convenient routes!
Book Amazing Airfares with Sky Bird!
As a travel agent, you’re missing a great opportunity for revenue and recognition if you don’t book flights for your clients! Travelers will have a better experience and a better vacation, while the advisor will earn a better commission.
Sky Bird Travel & Tours has been helping to book airfare for 45+ years with our WINGS Booking Engine. Once registered, you can also use WINGS to book discounted hotels, car rentals, tours, and more.