Clarity latest TMC to waive new BA booking fee
Travel management company Clarity has announced it is to waive British Airways’s and Iberia’s new £8 flight surcharge for customers.
It follows American Express Global Business Travel, HRG and Carlson Wagonlit, which also announced earlier this year that they had reached new distribution deals with the IAG-owned airlines to avoid the additional charge.
Leisure operator Flight Centre has also reached a deal with BA and Iberia to avoid the fee.
Manchester-based Clarity said it had worked with its GDS provider Travelport and IAG to continue to provide fares at the same rate from December 1.
The two airlines announced their intention to levy the fee from the start of November to make up for the extra costs of sales through GDSs.
However, Clarity said it won’t pass this on to its business customers, whether they book online or offline.
Chief executive Pat McDonagh said: "It was vital to us that our customers were not affected by this surcharge and we have been working tirelessly to strike the best possible deal for our clients.
"It’s central to what we provide to clients that they receive the most efficient value and best possible content when booking with Clarity.
"Our agreement forms part of a wider commitment to work with both IAG and Travelport to develop New Distribution Capability connectivity which will enhance the booking and traveller experience."
Clarity is the ninth biggest TMC in the country, with a turnover of £430 million.
Linsey McNeill
Editor Linsey McNeill has been writing about travel for more than three decades. Bylines include The Times, Telegraph, Observer, Guardian and Which? plus the South China Morning Post. She also shares insider tips on thetraveljournalist.co.uk
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