The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission today granted authorisation* to the International Air Transport Association for certain aspects of the IATA Passenger Agency Program on a transition basis.
The program provides a system for the sale and distribution of air transport through travel agencies. It was previously re-authorised in 2002. Authorisation for some aspects of the program ended in December 2006.
"The ACCC's decision extends immunity until the end of February 2008, " ACCC Chairman, Mr Graeme Samuel, said today. "This will allow IATA to assess the Passenger Agency Program and possibly implement changes, with a view to reducing the extent to which it relies on authorisation."
The ACCC's final determination is available from the ACCC website, www.accc.gov.au.
*Authorisation provides immunity from court action for conduct that might otherwise raise concerns under the competition provisions of the Trade Practices Act 1974. Authorisation is granted where the ACCC is satisfied that the practice delivers a net public benefit.