What: ASTA Will Have a Representative in the Aviation Consumer Protection Advisory Committee
Peter Lobasso, senior vice president and general counsel for the American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA), was appointed by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) to serve on the Anti-Discrimination Subcommittee, which was created by the DOT as a part of its Aviation Consumer Protection Advisory Committee (ACPAC).
ASTA’s Peter Lobasso
Credit: 2023 American Society of Travel Advisors
Among other things, the committee will review current airline policies, procedures and practices to prevent discrimination against air travelers based on any protected classification, and it will report its findings and recommendations to ACPAC.
Why It Matters: Travel Advisors Now Have a Bigger Influence in the DOT
The appointment of Lobasso is a win for travel advisors because it gives them a greater voice in the DOT, which has a huge influence on a wide range of regulations. Lobasso said he intends to consult with ASTA members when it comes to reviewing and developing recommendations for nondiscriminatory best practices related to airlines’ programs and activities. With so much turmoil in the air industry these days, having a strong voice representing advisors and the trade could help to avoid major issues before they develop.
Fast Facts: The Subcommittee Will Review Policies Regarding Air Travelers and Discrimination
- According to the DOT website, the Anti-Discrimination Subcommittee “will review airlines’ policies, procedures, and practices to prevent discrimination against air travelers based on race, ethnicity, national origin, religion, ancestry, gender, gender identity and sexual orientation. The Anti-Discrimination Subcommittee will develop recommendations for consideration by the ACPAC on best practices relating to training and other actions that can be taken by DOT, airlines, or others to ensure nondiscriminatory delivery of airlines’ programs and activities to air travelers.”
What They Are Saying: ASTA Is Looking Forward to Sharing Advisor Viewpoints and Consulting With ASTA Members
"It’s an honor to be appointed to this subcommittee to represent the viewpoint and interests of travel agencies and other ticket agents,” Lobasso said. “We intend to consult extensively with ASTA members throughout this process, relying on their expertise and experience to ensure the nondiscriminatory delivery of services to air travelers.”
