ASTA Code of Ethics
Preamble
We live in a world in which travel has become both increasingly important
and complex in its variety of modes and choices. Travelers are faced with
a myriad of alternatives (is to transportation accommodations and other
travel services Travelers must depend on travel agencies and others in
the industry to guide them honestly and completely. Similarly. carriers.
hotels and other suppliers must provide to the traveler the product as
it was advertised All ASTA members pledge themselves it) conduct their
business activities in a manner that promotes the ideal of integrity in
travel and agree to act in accordance with the following Principles of
the ASTA Code of Ethics. Complaints arising under this Code should be
filed in writing with the ASTA Consumer Affairs Department.
Responsibilities of All Members
1. Accuracy. ASTA members will be factual and
accurate when providing information about their services and the services
of any firm they represent. They will not use deceptive practices.
2. Disclosure. ASTA members will provide in writing, upon written request, complete details about the cost, restrictions, and other terms and conditions, of any travel service sold, including cancellation and service fee policies, before accepting payment. Full details of the time, place, duration, and nature of any sales or promotional presentation the consumer will be required to attend in connection with his/her travel arrangements shall be disclosed in writing before any payment is accepted.
3. Notice. ASTA members operating tours will promptly advise the agent or client who reserved the space of any change in itinerary, services, features or price. If substantial changes are made that are within the control of the operator, the client will be allowed to cancel without penalty.
4. Delivery. ASTA members operating tours will provide all components as stated in their brochure or written confirmation, or provide alternate services of equal or greater value, or provide appropriate compensation.
5. Responsiveness. ASTA members will promptly respond to their clients' complaints.
6. Refunds. ASTA members will remit any undisputed funds under their control within the specified time limit. Reasons for delay in providing funds will be given to the claimant promptly.
7. Cooperation. ASTA members will cooperate with any inquiry conducted by ASTA to resolve any dispute involving consumers or another member.
8. Confidences. ASTA members will not use improperly obtained client lists or other confidential information obtained from an employee's former employer.
9. Confidentiality. ASTA members will treat every client transaction confidentially and not disclose any information without permission of the client, unless required by law.
10. Affiliation. ASTA members will not falsely represent a person's affiliation with their firm.
11. Credentials. An ASTA member shall not, in exchange for money or otherwise, provide travel agent credentials to any person as to whom there is no reasonable expectation that the person will engage in a bona fide effort to sell or manage the sale of travel services to the general public on behalf of the member through the period of validity of such credentials. This principle applies to the ASTA member and all affiliated or commonly controlled enterprises.
12. Conflict of Interest. ASTA members will not allow any preferred relationship with a supplier to interfere with the interests of their clients.
13. Compliance. ASTA members shall abide by all federal, state and local laws and regulations. Conclusion Adherence to the Principles of the Code of Ethics signifies competence, fair dealing and high integrity Failure to adhere to this Code may subject a member to disciplinary actions, as set forth in ASTA's Bylaws.
