Consolidator Fares
Consolidator Fares are special discounted airline tickets that travel agencies can access through wholesale agreements with airlines. Think of it like buying in bulk from a wholesale store - travel agencies get these tickets at lower prices than public rates and can then sell them to customers while still making a profit. This is a key concept in the travel industry that helps agencies offer competitive prices while maintaining their business margins. It's similar to how wholesale travel packages or bulk hotel bookings work, but specifically for airline tickets.
Examples in Resumes
Managed Consolidator Fares relationships with major airlines, achieving 25% cost savings for clients
Negotiated new Consolidator Fare contracts with international carriers
Generated $500K in annual revenue through strategic use of Consolidator Fares and Bulk Fares
Typical job title: "Travel Consolidators"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Travel Consolidators
Professional Associations
Online Communities
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you develop and maintain relationships with multiple airline partners to secure the best consolidator fares?
Expected Answer: A strong answer should include experience in negotiating contracts, understanding airline capacity management, maintaining long-term partner relationships, and strategies for maximizing profit margins while keeping competitive pricing.
Q: Describe a situation where you improved a consolidator fare program's profitability.
Expected Answer: Look for answers that demonstrate understanding of market analysis, pricing strategies, and ability to identify opportunities for better deals with airlines while maintaining customer satisfaction.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What factors do you consider when selecting consolidator fares for different client segments?
Expected Answer: Should discuss understanding of different market segments, seasonal trends, competition analysis, and ability to match client needs with available fare options.
Q: How do you handle situations where consolidator fares are not available for a requested route?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate knowledge of alternative booking methods, ability to find creative solutions, and skills in managing client expectations.
Junior Level Questions
Q: Can you explain what consolidator fares are and how they differ from published fares?
Expected Answer: Should be able to explain that consolidator fares are wholesale, discounted airline tickets available to travel agencies, and how they typically offer better margins than published fares.
Q: What booking systems have you used to access consolidator fares?
Expected Answer: Should be familiar with common Global Distribution Systems (GDS) and understand basic booking procedures for consolidator fares.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic understanding of airline fare types
- Ability to book using reservation systems
- Customer service skills
- Understanding of travel documentation requirements
Mid (2-5 years)
- Fare comparison and analysis
- Network of airline contacts
- Understanding of contracts and agreements
- Problem-solving with complex bookings
Senior (5+ years)
- Contract negotiation with airlines
- Market analysis and pricing strategy
- Team management and training
- Program optimization and development
Red Flags to Watch For
- No knowledge of major airline reservation systems
- Lack of understanding of airline fare structures
- Poor grasp of travel industry regulations
- No experience with customer service or client relations
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