IATA Accreditation: Who Qualifies and What You Get
Learn how to get IATA accreditation to issue international airline tickets directly to your customers.
IATA Accreditation is a professional credential that allows travel agencies to handle international air travel transactions.
Who it's for
This scheme is specifically designed for travel agencies that sell international air tickets. If your business model involves booking and selling air travel on a global scale, this accreditation is the standard used to verify your professional standing in the industry.
What you get
The primary benefit of this accreditation is the ability to issue airline tickets directly to your customers. Instead of relying on other intermediaries, you gain the authority to process these transactions yourself. Upon successful completion of the process, you will be assigned an official IATA number, which serves as a recognized identifier for your agency within the international aviation network.
What it costs you
Obtaining and maintaining this status requires a commitment of both time and capital. You will be required to pay various professional fees to the issuing body. Additionally, you must meet specific financial security requirements, which ensure that your agency has the necessary stability to handle the high-value transactions involved in international air travel.
The catch to know
The most significant hurdle is the vetting process. There is a very strict financial vetting process that all applicants must pass. The organization will scrutinize your business's financial health to ensure you can meet the rigorous standards required to manage airline ticketing and funds.
How to apply
- Visit the official International Air Transport Association website.
- Review the specific financial security requirements and the necessary documentation needed for your business.
- Prepare to undergo a rigorous financial vetting process to prove your agency's stability.
- Complete the formal application through the official portal.