Net Fares

Term from Travel Services industry explained for recruiters

Net Fares are special discounted airline ticket prices that travel agencies and travel professionals can access. These are lower than public fares because they don't include the usual commission or markup. Think of them as "wholesale prices" in the travel industry. Travel agents use these reduced rates as a starting point, then add their own service fees to create the final price for customers while still keeping tickets competitive. This term is important in the travel industry because it shows that a professional understands airline pricing structures and how to work with various booking systems.

Examples in Resumes

Managed Net Fares and negotiated rates with major airlines to maximize agency profits

Increased company revenue by 25% through strategic use of Net Fare agreements

Trained new agents on Net Fares booking procedures and markup strategies

Typical job title: "Travel Agents"

Also try searching for:

Travel Consultant Corporate Travel Agent Air Fare Specialist Airline Reservation Agent Travel Services Coordinator Flight Booking Specialist

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How do you determine optimal markup strategies for different types of net fares?

Expected Answer: A senior agent should explain how they analyze market conditions, competition, and client profiles to set profitable yet competitive markups, while maintaining relationships with both suppliers and customers.

Q: How do you train your team to effectively use net fares while maintaining profitability?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate leadership experience in teaching pricing strategies, explaining how to balance competitive pricing with profit margins, and maintaining quality customer service.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What factors do you consider when choosing between different net fare options for a client?

Expected Answer: Should explain how they balance client needs, booking conditions, flexibility requirements, and potential markup opportunities while ensuring customer satisfaction.

Q: How do you handle situations where net fares aren't available for a requested route?

Expected Answer: Should discuss alternative booking strategies, negotiating with suppliers, and how to explain options to clients while maintaining the agency's profitability.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What is the difference between net fares and published fares?

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain that net fares are wholesale prices available to travel agents, while published fares are retail prices available to the general public.

Q: How do you calculate the final price for a customer when using net fares?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate basic understanding of adding appropriate markup to net fares while considering competition and agency guidelines.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic understanding of airline pricing structures
  • Ability to book basic net fare tickets
  • Knowledge of standard markup procedures
  • Basic use of booking systems

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Complex fare calculations and comparisons
  • Understanding of different fare rules and restrictions
  • Ability to maximize profit margins
  • Strong supplier relationships

Senior (5+ years)

  • Strategic pricing and revenue management
  • Negotiation of fare contracts with suppliers
  • Team training and development
  • Market analysis and trend forecasting

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No knowledge of basic airline pricing structures
  • Unable to explain markup calculations
  • Lack of experience with major booking systems
  • Poor understanding of fare rules and restrictions
  • No experience in customer service or sales