Biman warns ticketing agents against breaches of rules


FE Team | Published: June 29, 2024 21:56:40


Biman warns ticketing agents against breaches of rules

Biman Bangladesh Airlines has issued a stern warning to its authorised travel agents, saying that stringent actions will be taken against those breaching the rules set by the national flag carrier, reports BSS.
In a letter sent to all Passenger Service Agents (PSAs), Biman expressed concern over agents who are undercutting or overpricing tickets through their own web portals.
"It has been observed by Biman Bangladesh Airlines that some of the reputed Biman-approved travel agents are selling and promoting Biman tickets at prices either lower or higher than the approved fares on different routes," reads the letter.
The state-owned airlines requested all its PSAs to follow all rules and policies set by Biman, otherwise the airliner has the right to close business relations with those agents who are manipulating Biman's image and goodwill.
Biman urged all agents to adhere to the airline's policies, giving a warning that failure to comply could result in the termination of business relationships.
Agents manipulating Biman's image and goodwill will face severe consequences, the airline warned.
The letter pointed out that all approved PSAs in Bangladesh are entitled to a 7 per cent commission on the base fare.
However, it said, some agents are offering 15-20 per cent discounts on tickets through their web portals and social media, creating unhealthy competition and harming Biman's reputation.
Besides, the letter said, Biman observed that some online travel agents (OTAs) are failing to provide services to customers after ticket issuance.
Some OTAs are reportedly refusing to assist customers with changes to their travel plans or ticket refunds, said the airline.
"We have been receiving a number of complaints on this issue, which directly affected our goodwill and image," said the letter, issued by the Biman's Sales Promotion Section last week.
This move comes after the Association of Travel Agents of Bangladesh (ATAB) alerted Biman to irregularities by certain agencies.
"In this era of information technology, we support tech-based business but must ensure ticket buyers are not defrauded. We seek a proper and timely policy for OTAs," ATAB President Abdus Salam Aref told BSS.
ATAB Secretary General Afshia Jannat Saleh also stressed the need for immediate action to ensure a fair competition in the travel and ticketing industry.

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