Implications of Tauck’s Decision to Stop Booking American Airlines and Other Oneworld Carriers

Recently, tour operator Tauck made a bold decision to stop booking American Airlines and other Oneworld alliance carriers due to a new policy that makes it challenging for them to offer refundable airfares. This decision has significant implications not only for Tauck but also for travelers who rely on these airlines for their trips.

Travel advisors who work with Tauck were informed of this policy change through a memo sent on May 16. The memo highlighted the difficulties that Tauck and other tour and cruise companies are facing due to the policy and systems changes implemented by Oneworld airlines. These changes are said to have made it exceedingly difficult for companies like Tauck to maintain the same level of service, flexibility, and value for their customers.

American Airlines, a key player in the Oneworld alliance, recently introduced tighter restrictions on cancellations and rebookings by tour operators and cruise lines. This move includes a $50 fee for cancellations made beyond the 24-hour booking window and stricter rules around churning, a practice where the same itinerary is canceled and rebooked to avoid ticketing time limits. While one free churn is permitted per passenger, subsequent churns incur a fee of $50 each, up to a maximum of four charged churns per passenger, totaling $200.

It’s important to note that Tauck’s policy change does not affect guests who had already booked flights with American or another Oneworld airline before May 13. These travelers are exempt from the new restrictions and fees put in place by American Airlines.

Tauck’s decision to cease booking American Airlines and other Oneworld carriers sheds light on the challenges faced by tour operators and cruise companies in the travel industry. The stricter policies and fees put in place by these airlines have forced Tauck to reevaluate its partnerships and make tough decisions to protect the interests of its customers. As the travel landscape continues to evolve, it’s crucial for companies like Tauck to adapt and find solutions that prioritize customer satisfaction and service quality.