Protecting travellers’ rights while ensuring the future success of the travel advisory profession is the dual mission of the World Travel Agents Associations Alliance (WTAAA). Following its General Assembly and Board Meeting in Athens, Greece, last week, the WTAAA has outlined key initiatives for 2025 and beyond, focused on enhancing the travel experience and empowering travel agents to better serve their clients.
For travellers, the WTAAA is committed to advocating for greater transparency in pricing, particularly in the context of new technologies like NDC. The organisation is advocating that travellers can easily compare options and make informed decisions. Consumer protection and robust dispute resolution mechanisms are also high on the WTAAA’s agenda. The upcoming “Travel Right, Travel Smart” campaign in 2025 will equip travellers with the knowledge and resources they need to protect themselves and navigate the complexities of modern travel.
“Travellers deserve clear, concise information and the ability to make informed choices. We are working to ensure that new technologies enhance, not hinder, the travel experience,” said Otto De Vries, Executive Director of WTAAA.
For travel advisors, the WTAAA is focused on providing the resources and support needed to navigate the evolving complexities of the industry. This includes advocating for fair professional fees, addressing training concerns related to new technologies, and working with airlines and other industry stakeholders to ensure a level playing field.
The WTAAA believes that strong travel advisors are essential to protecting traveller rights and ensuring positive travel experiences. By empowering advisors, the WTAAA is ultimately empowering travellers.
The WTAAA’s new Executive Committee is led by Chair Wendy Paradis (ACTA), with Vice Chairs Paula Cortés (FOLATUR) and Dean Long (ATIA). Eric Drésin (ECTAA) serves as Secretary, Hamza Rahmat (MATTA) as Treasurer, and Otto De Vries (ASATA) as Executive Director. Mark Meader (ASTA) chairs the Land & Sea Committee, while Christian Möller heads the Air Matters Committee. The WTAAA also extends its gratitude to outgoing Chair Andrew Bowman for his continued service.
The WTAAA is committed to investing in initiatives that benefit both travellers and the travel advisory community and looks forward to a productive year under the guidance of its new leadership.