IATA
IATA (International Air Transport Association) is the main organization that creates standards for the airline and travel industry worldwide. Think of it as the "rule maker" that helps airlines, travel agencies, and other travel businesses work together smoothly. When you see IATA mentioned on a resume, it often means the person has experience with airline booking systems, understands travel industry regulations, or has completed IATA-certified training programs. It's similar to how a restaurant might be "certified by the health department" - IATA certification tells employers that someone understands the proper way to handle travel-related tasks.
Examples in Resumes
Managed IATA accredited travel agency operations serving corporate clients
Completed IATA certification for airline ticketing and reservations
Used IATA standards to handle dangerous goods shipping documentation
Applied International Air Transport Association regulations in cargo operations
Typical job title: "Travel Consultants"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Travel Consultants
Professional Networks
Job Boards
Industry Resources
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you implement IATA regulations in a travel agency setting?
Expected Answer: A senior candidate should explain how they would ensure compliance with booking, ticketing, and safety regulations, train staff on IATA standards, and maintain agency accreditation requirements.
Q: Describe your experience with IATA's New Distribution Capability (NDC)
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate understanding of modern airline retail distribution systems and how they affect travel booking operations and customer service.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What are the key IATA regulations you need to follow when booking international flights?
Expected Answer: Should be able to explain passenger documentation requirements, baggage rules, and basic ticketing procedures according to IATA standards.
Q: How do you handle airline code-sharing under IATA guidelines?
Expected Answer: Should explain how to book and manage flights operated by partner airlines, including proper documentation and customer communication.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What is IATA and why is it important in the travel industry?
Expected Answer: Should explain that IATA is the main airline industry organization that sets standards for safety, ticketing, and operations to ensure consistent service worldwide.
Q: What is an IATA code and how is it used?
Expected Answer: Should know that IATA codes are unique identifiers for airports (3-letter codes) and airlines (2-letter codes) used in reservations and ticketing.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic understanding of IATA codes and regulations
- Simple flight booking procedures
- Customer service fundamentals
- Basic travel documentation knowledge
Mid (2-5 years)
- Complex itinerary management
- Fare calculations and ticketing
- Travel policy implementation
- Emergency situation handling
Senior (5+ years)
- Agency operations management
- IATA compliance oversight
- Staff training and development
- Strategic partnership management
Red Flags to Watch For
- No knowledge of basic IATA codes or regulations
- Lack of understanding of travel documentation requirements
- Unable to explain basic airline booking procedures
- No experience with travel reservation systems
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