What are consolidators? Can someone explain?
Aug 30th, 2001, 04:08 PM
#3
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Actually airlines and consolidators usually take it step beyond what Bob has sketched. <BR> <BR>Airlines often contract with consolidators to move seats they 'forecast' won't be sold ... at least at (relatively) full fare. Contracts are usually done around the end of the year, or sometime early in the year. <BR> <BR>There are many ethical consolidators that have been in business for a long time. Unfortunately there are also a number that are not and have not been. It's difficult (virtually impossible) for an individual traveler to know who is who (or whom is whom?) <BR> <BR>Buying tickets through a consolidator can be a very good deal. But it's probably best to only buy them through an experienced travel agent that does a lot of business with consolidators and knows which ones to rely on and which to avoid. <BR> <BR>You'll also want to have the agent explain the shortcomings of consolidator tickets. While it will vary, typical are, tickets not endorsable to another carrier in the event of a flight cancellation and no frequent flyer points, possibly limited refundablility. <BR> <BR>twenj
Aug 30th, 2001, 05:59 PM
#4
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Orbitz is one consolidator that does have contracts with the airlines to provide frequent flyer miles, however, you must provide your FF# at the time you make your on-line reservation. Through consolidators you can also reserve hotels, cruises and rent cars. But, all consolidators have different prices for the same items, so check a few of them before you make your choice, and read all of the rules before you double-click. And sometimes, you will find a better fare on a specific airline's website too. Believe me, it's all timing.
Aug 30th, 2001, 10:53 PM
#5
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FAQ on this site http://altern.org/ehasbrouck/faq/index.html Regards, Walter <BR> <BR>
Aug 31st, 2001, 05:20 AM
#6
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Orbitz is not a consolidator, it is an on-line travel agency operated by the five major airlines. Some guide books offer a list of consolidators and discount travel agencies. Not all consolidators sell to the general public, some deal only with certain airlines, and some specialize in certain geographical areas. <BR>
Aug 31st, 2001, 05:32 AM
#7
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I second the recommendation about relying on a reputable travel agent when dealing with consolidators. <BR> <BR>A friend of mine is a TA, and has gotten us some good deals through consolidators (ex: $425 round trip Philadelphia-Rome). Just make sure your travel agent is a good one who explains that you're buying from a consolidator and what the pros and cons are.
Aug 31st, 2001, 08:09 AM
#9
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With consolidators, be prepared for either odd connections or uncommon carriers. An example: I flew from London to New York on El Al (this was the last leg of a flight originating in Tel Aviv). Instead of flying directly to Rome, you might change in Dusseldorf to a KLM flight. <BR> <BR>I've never flown on some oddball airline that would give me nightmares, they've always been major carriers.
Aug 31st, 2001, 11:16 AM
#10
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You CAN earn frequent flyer miles through many consolidators. The consolidator contracts with specific airlines; the bulk rate being offered in a specific class of service. If that class of service is available on the flight you want to the destination you want, you're in luck. If you are being routed all over the place on some lesser known airline, it should only be because your other choices are sold out. I book people on United, Air France, British Air, etc. with NORMAL connections. Some consolidators sell to the general public, many do not. The cancellation and change fees can be steep, but the airline fees even run $150. I book almost everyone I know through consolidators, unless the published airfare is less, which happens if the airline is running a promotion. <BR> <BR>They are a great way to go.
