Organization:
American Society of
Travel Agents
Source: CSEP
Library
Date Approved:
1996
Disclaimer: Please note the codes in our collection might not necessarily
be the most recent versions. Please contact the individual organizations
or their websites to verify if a more recent or updated code of ethics
is available. CSEP does not hold copyright on any of the codes of ethics
in our collection. Any permission to use the codes must be sought from
the individual organizations directly.
American Society of Travel Agents
ASTA's Mission Statement The American Society of Travel Agents' mission is to enhance the professionalism and profitability of member agents through effective representation in industry and government affairs, education and training, and by identifying and meeting the needs of the traveling public.
ASTA's 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 as to transportation, accommodations and other travel services. Travelers must depend on travel agencies and others in the industry to guide them honestly and competently. Similarly, carriers, hotels and other suppliers must provide to the traveler the product as it was advertised. All ASTA members pledge themselves to 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
- 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.
- Disclosure. ASTA members will provide complete details about terms and conditions of any travel service, including cancellation and service fee policies, before accepting non refundable payment for the booking.
- 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.
- 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.
- Responsiveness. ASTA members will promptly respond to their clients complaints.
- 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.
- Cooperation. ASTA members will cooperate with any inquiry conducted by ASTA to resolve any dispute involving consumers or another member.
- Confidences. ASTA members will not use improperly obtained client lists or other confidential information obtained from an employee s former employer.
- Confidentiality. ASTA members will treat every client transaction confidentially and not disclose any information without permission of the client, unless required by law.
- Affiliation. ASTA members will not falsely represent a person s affiliation with their firm.
- 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.
- Conflict of Interest. ASTA members will not allow any preferred relationship with a supplier to interfere with the interests of their clients.
- Compliance. ASTA members shall abide by all federal, state and local laws and regulations.
Conclusion
Adherence to the Principles of the ASTA Code of Ethics signifies competence, fair dealing and high integrity. Failure to adhere to these Principles may subject a member to disciplinary action, as set forth in ASTA s Bylaws.ASTA net is a service of the American Society of Travel Agents, Inc.
Copyright 1996 American Society of Travel Agents, Inc.
