Unlocking Airfare Savings and Opportunities: A Guide to Airline Consolidator Platforms
In today’s competitive travel landscape, advisors are constantly seeking new ways to offer value, increase profit margins, and provide exceptional service. One of the best-kept secrets in the industry? Airline consolidator platforms. These platforms are essential tools that can help independent advisors and their leisure agencies secure competitive net fares—especially in the international market.
What Are Airline Consolidators?
Airline consolidators are third-party companies that purchase airline tickets in bulk at discounted rates, then resell them to travel agents at net prices. These fares are often lower than published fares and can allow for higher commission potential, flexible ticketing options, and value-added services. Consolidators work directly with airlines to negotiate contracts and distribute fare inventory through online booking portals or via GDS systems.
Why Use a Consolidator?
Here are just a few compelling reasons why travel professionals benefit from using consolidator platforms:
- Competitive Net Fares: Especially valuable for international and premium cabin bookings, net fares can help you beat online prices and build customer loyalty.
- Commission Control: Since you’re working with a net fare, you determine your markup—giving you control over your profit margin.
- Complex Itineraries: Consolidators often excel at piecing together multi-city or open-jaw routes that may be difficult to construct through standard systems.
- Specialty Markets: Need fares to South Asia, Africa, or South America? Consolidators often have strong relationships with international carriers serving niche markets.
- Support and Flexibility: Many consolidators offer white-glove service with dedicated support teams, after-hours assistance, and flexible ticketing rules.
Popular Airline Consolidator Platforms
Several trusted consolidators have made a name for themselves in the industry. Depending on your needs and market, you may want to explore:
- SkyBird Travel & Tours
- Consolidated Travel Services (CTS)
- FareBuzz
- Downtown Travel
- Picasso Travel
- Centrav
- Regal Wings
Things to Keep in Mind
While consolidator platforms offer tremendous advantages, it’s important to:
- Vet their reputation: Work only with accredited, well-reviewed consolidators that have a solid track record in the industry some of which are inlcuded above.
- Understand their terms: Review fare rules, refundability, and change policies before issuing tickets.
- Watch for hidden fees: Some consolidators charge service fees, so be sure to factor those into your pricing.
- Use your agency credentials: Ensure your TRUE accreditation number, is properly associated with your profile for booking and commission purposes.
Airline consolidators offer powerful tools for today’s travel advisor—unlocking opportunities to serve clients more competitively while increasing revenue. If you haven’t explored using a consolidator yet, it’s well worth your time to research your options and test their platforms. With the right partnerships, you can provide better value, offer more flight options, and increase your bottom line.