Travel agents in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain have been given the opportunity to open a “direct sales link” with national carrier Etihad Airways, following successful talks between the airline and travel trade group Abu Dhabi Travel and Tourism Agencies Council (ATTAC).
The new scheme which was worked out by Hareb Al Muhairi — vice president sales, UAE, Robert Chad, general manager, sales from Etihad, and Hani Khorsheed, general secretary of ATTAC — means Non-IATA agents can now have direct link with Etihad Airways on a credit basis.
A minimal Bank Guarantee is required — starting at AED 50,000 (US$ 13,612) — and all transactions will go through the normal GDS connection.
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ATTAC and Etihad Airways are also jointly working on a proposal to come up with an Insurance Guarantee Scheme in conjunction with an International Insurance Company to provide agents with an alternative option to the costly Bank Guarantee requirement.
Hani Khorsheed said he “welcomed” the move by Etihad’s top officials to meet with Abu Dhabi trade representatives face to face and reiterated on behalf of the travel trade, the trade’s commitment to further support Etihad as a priority with sales volumes.
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Jul 14, 2011 , USA
With the uncertainty of the market and purchase of residences,this is a wonderful gesture to ensure the happiness of part of the world.And to have more of an diverse market to avoid another recession.