The initial deadline set for implementation of zero commission in the Indian travel industry was November 1, 2008, however, contrary to the set deadline, the industry i.e. the airlines, travel associations, travel agents and also the IATA does not have a clear idea about the D-Day for implementation. This has come about due to a divided approach in the industry- on one hand, TAAI has agreed on the Transaction Fee model, on the other, post the status quo decision passed by the Calcutta High Court, TAFI is awaiting the decision of its members on adopting the Transaction Fee model or not and IAAI stands firm on its decision to fight to get commissions back to nine per cent.
A TAFI member had filed a suit against Air India, IATA and others (Jet Airways and Kingfisher Airlines) in the last week of September (see issue dated October 6-12, 2008 )wherein the Calcutta High Court issued status quo (stay order) till November 5, 2008 with regards to implementing the zero commission as per the set date of November 1, 2008. |